Viewing optic with an integrated display system

ABSTRACT

The disclosure relates to a viewing optic. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having an integrated display system. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having an integrated display system for generating images that are projected into the first focal plane of an optical system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation patent application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/889,886 filed Feb. 6, 2018, which is anon-provisional application of and claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/455,274 filed Feb. 6, 2017, U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/466,150 filed Mar. 2, 2017, U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/485,129 filed Apr. 13, 2017, and U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/616,799 filed Jan. 12, 2018, allof which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

The disclosure relates to a viewing optic with an integrated displaysystem. In one embodiment, the viewing optic has an active displaysystem that generates and projects the image into a first focal plane ofthe optical system. In yet another embodiment, the viewing optic has amain body and a base coupled to the main body.

BACKGROUND

Riflescopes have been used for well over a century and while the qualityand features of these devices have improved tremendously over the years,the core components (and the limitations of those components) used intheir design, manufacture and use are still very much the same today asthey were 100 years ago. Riflescopes create a magnified or unmagnifiedimage of a scene that is distant from the shooter on a focal plane,which is coincident with an aiming feature, or reticle. The reticleconsists of wire or a material deposited in a pattern onto a glasssurface and it is used as an aiming reference, which corresponds to thetrajectory of the rifle to which it's attached. The reticle may alsohave specific features included to aid the shooter in making distancejudgements and in compensating for bullet deviation at differentdistances.

Turrets are also used to make adjustments to the reticle position inrelation to the target in order to compensate for bullet deviation. Thisis a very developed and reliable system that can be used in the hands ofthe experienced and skilled shooter to make challenging long rangeshots. With the aid of a laser rangefinder (LRF) and a ballisticcomputer and careful attention to detail, an experienced shooter canroutinely hit targets at the maximum effective range of their firearm bymaking the necessary mechanical adjustments to the firearm and/orexecuting the correct holds on the reticle pattern.

While this system performs well, there is always a desire to improveupon the system. In particular, there is a desire to reduce thecomplexity involved in hitting long range targets. A large amount ofinformation is needed on a shot-by-shot basis in order to effectivelyhit long range targets and the shooter must be able to process thisinformation and make the correct judgments and calculations in realtime. In addition to the riflescope, other tools are needed by theshooter to ensure accurate shot placement. For instance, a bubble levelmounted externally to the riflescope is needed to ensure that the opticis level before executing a shot. This requires the shooter to removehis head from the pupil of the optic to check his or her level.

A laser rangefinder and ballistic computer are also needed to measuretarget range and calculate a bullet trajectory. This once again requiresthe shooter to attend to an external device and then remember the datawhen making the necessary adjustments. If a weapon mounted laserrangefinder is used, then the shooter needs to take special care toensure that the aiming point of the optic is corresponding exactly withthe aiming point of the LRF.

Additionally, and not trivial to the use of riflescopes, is that theyare only useful during daylight hours. Once night begins to descend,thermal and/or night vision devices must be attached to the weapon infront of the riflescope. These devices capture other forms of radiationthat are not visible to the human eye due to their wavelength or lowintensity. These devices then either recreate the image of the scene orintensify it and reimage the scene into the objective of the riflescope.Effective and necessary for low light conditions, these devices are alsoheavy and large.

In the particular case of thermal imaging devices, a thermal scene isimaged via infrared optics onto a special thermal sensor. The image isthen recreated on a micro display and the micro display is, in turn,reimaged into the objective of the riflescope with a visible opticssystem. The two separate optical systems required to accomplish thisresult in a rather large, heavy, and expensive device.

As technology advances, there is a need for some level of systemintegration in order to reduce the heavy processing requirements placedon the shooter. This integration is also required to decrease the “timeto engagement” that is traditionally quite long when multiple deviceshave to be referenced and calculations and adjustments have to be made.And finally, the size and weight of additional devices needed foreffective use of the riflescope in low light conditions can be reducedwith a more integrated solution.

Previous devices have attempted to address some of these issues indifferent ways with varying degrees of success. However, all attemptsprior have implemented their solutions in the Second Focal Plane of theoptic. This is very disadvantageous because the second focal plane in ariflescope is only well correlated to the image of the scene at a singlemagnification setting. The location of the aiming point is only accurateat one location in the turret adjustment as well. Because of thisserious limitation, additional electronics are necessary to track thevariables in the rest of the system and adjust the aiming pointaccordingly. Other systems provide approximate aiming point solutionsthrough the illumination of features at generic, coarsely-spacedintervals instead of having a quasi-infinite range of points to select.Weaker systems are only capable of displaying basic information such asdistance to target or current weather conditions.

Thus, a need still exists for a viewing optic that can projectinformation into the first focal plane of an optical system. Theapparatuses, systems, and methods disclosed herein address all of theseshortcomings in an innovative fashion.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a viewing optic is provided including a main tube, anobjective system coupled to a first end of the main tube and an ocularsystem coupled to a second end of the main tube. The main tube, theobjective system and the ocular system are cooperatively configured todefine at least one focal plane. The viewing optic further includes abeam combiner located between the objective system and the first focalplane. The viewing optic further includes an integrated display systemcomprising an active display, wherein the active display generates andprojects a digital image to the beam combiner so the digital image andthe target image from the objective lens system can be combined at thefirst focal plane.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic with afirst optical system comprised of an objective lens system that focusesan image from a target down to a first focal plane (hereafter referredto as the “FFP Target Image”), followed by an erector lens system thatinverts the FFP Target Image and focuses it to a second focal plane(hereafter referred to as the “SFP Target Image”), a beam combiner thatis placed between the objective lens system and the FFP Target Image, aneyepiece lens system that collimates the SFP Target Image so that it canbe observed by the human eye, and a second optical system. In oneembodiment, the second optical system has an active display forgenerating an image, and a lens system that collects the light from theactive display. The image from the digital display is directed to thebeam combiner so that the digital image and the target image from theobjective lens system can be combined at the first focal plane andviewed simultaneously.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having amain body with an optics system for viewing an outward scene and a basecoupled to the main body with an integrated display system forgenerating images and directing the generated images for simultaneousoverlaid viewing of the generated images and images of the outward scenein the first focal plane of the main body. In one embodiment, the baseis separable from the main body. In one embodiment, the base couples toa bottom portion of the main body. In yet another embodiment, the basehas a cavity that contains the integrated display system. In anotherembodiment, the cavity can also have a compartment for one or more powersources.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having abody with direct viewing optics for viewing images of an outward sceneand a base having an integrated display system, wherein the integrateddisplay system generates images with an active display and directs theimages for simultaneous overlaid viewing of the generated images andimages of the outward scene.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic with a bodyhaving a main optical system comprised of an objective lens system thatfocuses an image from a target down to a first focal plane (hereafterreferred to as the “FFP Target Image”), a beam combiner that is placedbetween the objective lens system and the FFP Target Image, followed byan erector lens system that inverts the FFP Target Image and focuses itto a second focal plane (hereafter referred to as the “SFP TargetImage”), and finally an eyepiece lens system that collimates the SFPTarget Image so that it can be observed by the human eye, and a basecoupled to a bottom portion of the body having a cavity with anintegrated display system for generating images and directing thegenerated images for simultaneous overlaid viewing of the generatedimages and images of the outward scene in the first focal plane of thebody.

In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic havinga body with an optical system for viewing an outward scene and a basewith an active display for generating an image, wherein the generatedimage is combined into the image of the outward scene in the first focalplane of the optical system.

In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic havinga main body with an optical system for viewing an outward scene and abase coupled to a bottom portion of the main body with a cavity havingan active display for generating an image, wherein the generated imageis combined into the image of the outward scene in the first focal planeof the optical system.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having abody with a first optical system for viewing an outward image and asecond optical system comprised of a digital display mounted in ahousing, wherein the housing is parallel to the first optical system,wherein the image of the second optical system is combined into theimage of the first optical system in the first focal plane of the optic.In one embodiment, the second optical system comprises an activedisplay. In yet another embodiment, the second optical system comprisesa lens system that collects the light from the active display.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having amain body with a first optical system for viewing an outward image and ahousing coupled to the main body with an integrated display system forgenerating an image, wherein the image of the integrated display systemis combined into the image of the first optical system in the firstfocal plane of the optic.

In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises an activedisplay, collector optics and a reflective surface or material,including but not limited to a mirror. In one embodiment, the activedisplay can generate images including but not limited to text,alpha-numerics, graphics, symbols, and/or video imagery, icons, etc.,including active target reticles, corrected aim-points, rangemeasurements, and wind information.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic comprising:a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, an ocular lens system for viewing the target image, (ii) abeam combiner; (iii) a second optical system with an active display forgenerating an image, and a reflective material that directs thegenerated image from the active display to the beam combiner, and one ormore adjustment mechanisms for performing one or more of the following:(a) moving the active display in relation to the reflective material,(b) moving the reflective material in relation to the active display,(c) moving the reflective material in relation to the beam combiner, (d)moving the beam combiner in relation to the reflective material, and (e)moving the erector lens system in relation to the beam combiner, whereinthe image from the active display and the target image from theobjective lens system are combined into the first focal plane and viewedsimultaneously.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic comprising:(a) a main tube; (b) an objective system coupled to a first end of themain tube that focuses a target image from an outward scene; (c) anocular system coupled to the second end of the main tube, the main tube,objective system and ocular system being configured to define at least afirst focal plane; and (d) a beam combiner positioned between theobjective assembly and the first focal plane, (e) an active display forgenerating an image and a reflective material that directs the imagefrom the active display to the beam combiner, wherein the image from theactive display and the target image from the objective lens system arecombined into the first focal plane and viewed simultaneously and (f) anadjustment mechanism for performing one or more of the following: (i)moving the active display in relation to the reflective material, or(ii) moving the reflective material in relation to the active display.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic comprising:a viewing optic comprising: an optical system configured to define afirst focal plane; an active display for generating an image, and areflective material for directing the image to the first focal plane;and one or more adjustment mechanisms for performing one or more of thefollowing: (a) moving the active display in relation to the reflectivematerial, and (b) moving the reflective material in relation to theactive display.

In one embodiment, the integrated display system has collector optics ora lens system to collect light from an active display. The light fromthe display is directed to a reflective surface or material, includingbut not limited to a mirror, and from the reflective surface to a beamcombiner in the main tube assembly of the viewing optic and an image ofthe display is formed, which is coincident with the first focal plane ofthe optical system. This image of the display is combined with the imagecoming from the scene (target) and is perceived as being “underneath”the traditional wire or glass etched reticle.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to housing coupled to a mainbody of a viewing optic, wherein the housing contains a display forgenerating images that can be injected into the first focal plane of themain body, such that the image of the display on the first focal planeis not tied to the movement of the erector tube.

In one embodiment, the active display is configured to emit light in adirection that is substantially parallel to an optical axis of theviewing scope.

In one embodiment, the active display is configured to emit light in adirection that is substantially perpendicular to an optical axis of theviewing scope.

In one embodiment, the mirror is oriented at an angle of approximately45° relative to the emitted light of the display.

In one embodiment, the display and the mirror are located on a commonside of the viewing optic main body.

In one embodiment, the display and the mirror are located on oppositesides of the viewing optic main body.

In one embodiment, the display and the mirror are located on a commonside of a base coupled to the viewing optic main body.

In one embodiment, the display and the mirror are located on oppositesides of a base coupled to the viewing optic main body.

In one embodiment, the mirror is located on the objective side of thebase coupled to the viewing optic main body.

In one embodiment, the active display is located on the ocular side ofthe base coupled to the viewing optic main body.

In one embodiment, the methods and apparatuses disclosed herein allowthe end user to easily discern a digital overlay from a day optic scene.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic that hasboth an analog reticle and a digital reticle visible to the user whenlooking through the scope.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic is used in conjunction with afirearm. In one embodiment, the viewing optic is a riflescope. In oneembodiment, the riflescope can be used with an external laserrangefinder with ballistic calculation capability. In one embodiment,the riflescope is rigidly mounted to the firearm and the laserrangefinder is mounted to either the firearm or the riflescope.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to sighting system comprisinga riflescope having a main body with a first optical viewing system forviewing an outward scene and a base having an integrated display systemfor generating an image, wherein the base is coupled to a bottom portionof the main body, and further wherein the generated image and an imageof the outward scene are combined in a first focal plane of the opticssystem, a laser rangefinder that measures the distance to the target andcomponents to compute the ballistics for hitting that target. In oneembodiment, the integrated display system can digitally display computedinformation and the correct point of aim, which corresponds with thepoint of impact of the rifle bullet, wherein the digitally displayed aimpoint and the outward scene are overlaid and displayed in the firstfocal plane of the riflescope.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to sighting system comprisinga riflescope having a main body with a first optical viewing system forviewing an outward scene and a base having an integrated display systemfor generating an image, wherein the base is coupled to a bottom portionof the main body, and further wherein the generated image and an imageof the outward scene are combined in a first focal plane of the opticssystem, a laser rangefinder that measures the distance to the target andthe components to compute the ballistics for hitting that target arelocated in the main body of the riflescope.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having aparallax adjustment system in the main body of a viewing optic to allowfor the remote location of the parallax adjustment lenses (focusingcell), which provides space to integrate the necessary prismatic lenses(beam combiner) forward of the first focal plane.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a riflescope with aninternal magnification tracking device to scale a digital imageprojected on the first focal plane reticle.

In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a magnificationtracking device to scale a digital image projected on the first focalplane with the change of magnification.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses fororientation of a display in an active reticle rifle optic for maximumvertical compensation.

In another embodiment, the methods and apparatuses disclosed hereinallows for the maximized range of vertical adjustment of an activereticle within a riflescope by specifically orientating the deviceresponsible for emitting the augmentation image.

In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a method for aligningthe tilt of the vertical axis of a micro display and the vertical axisof a reticle in the optical system of a viewing optic, which is compact,simple, and accurate.

In one embodiment, the methods and apparatuses disclosed herein allowfor the seamless combination of a processed digital image into a dayvisible optic.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to an active displayintegrated into the first focal plane (FFP) utilizing axially orientateddata or communication ports thereby maintaining a minimized physical topdown profile.

An advantage of the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein is that amultitude of advanced targeting functions can be utilized whilepreserving a direct view of the target scene.

An advantage of the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein is that thegenerated image from the integrated display system is combined with theoutward image from the target in front of the first focal plane and thenfocused onto the first focal plane, as such, the target image andgenerated image from the integrated display system never move inrelation to one another.

An advantage of the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein is that theinjection of the generated image from the active display into the firstfocal plane of the optics system allows the generated image to beunaffected by any change in the turret adjustment or position of theerector system.

An advantage of the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein is that bysuperimposing the generated image of an active display onto the firstfocal plane, the user is able to use a traditional glass etched reticlefor aiming purposes if the electronics should fail or the power supplybe exhausted. This is an important failsafe which the apparatuses andmethods disclosed herein supplies.

An advantage of the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein is that bydisplaying the generated image from the integrated display system on thefirst focal plane, the location of the electronic aiming point staysaccurate in relation to the target regardless of the currentmagnification setting of the riflescope or any other adjustments.

Features, components, steps or aspects of one embodiment describedherein may be combined with features, components, steps or aspects ofother embodiments without limitation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a schematic depicting parts of a riflescope.

FIG. 1B is a schematic depicting additional parts and components of aviewing optic in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 1C is a cross section view of the viewing optic of FIG. 1B showinga moveable optic element inside the optic body according to oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 1D is a schematic of a viewing optic depicting a parallaxadjustment knob according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 1E is a schematic of the erector system in the optical element ofthe viewing optic according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side view of a riflescope having a main body and a basecoupled to the main body according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a viewing optic with a main bodyhaving a beam combiner located between the objective assembly and thefirst focal plane according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a representative schematic displaying a longitudinally-splitmain body of a viewing optic according to one embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 5A is a representative schematic of a traditional parallaxadjustment knob with a cam pin that rests in a cam grove on the parallaxknob.

FIG. 5B is a representative schematic of traditional parallax adjustmentknob showing a cam pin connecting aspects of a focus cell to a parallaxknob.

FIG. 5C is a representative schematic of a parallax adjustment system. Aconnecting rod is shown that can be used for parallax adjustment. Thefocusing cell (parallax lenses) has been moved to allow space for thebeam combiner (prismatic lenses) to be placed forward of the first focalplane according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5D is a representative schematic of a parallax adjustment systemshowing one end of the connecting rod having a cam-pin that rests in acam grove of the parallax adjustment knob assembly according to oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5E is a representative schematic of a parallax adjustment systemhaving a connecting rod with one end connected to a focusing cell andthe other end of the rod connected to a cam pin according to oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5F is a representative schematic of a parallax adjustment systemhaving a connecting rod with one end connected to a focusing cell andthe other end of the rod connected to a cam pin that rests in a camgroove on the parallax knob according to one embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 6 is a representative schematic showing an outer erector sleevewith a potentiometer wiper according to one embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 7 is a representative schematic showing a membrane potentiometerplacement on main body of a riflescope according to one embodiment ofthe disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a representative schematic showing outer erector sleeve withpotentiometer wiper installed and membrane potentiometer installed onmain body of a riflescope according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of various components of the viewing opticaccording to an embodiment of the disclosure according to one embodimentof the disclosure.

FIG. 10 is top view of a riflescope having a main body and a baseaccording to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a side view of a portion of the riflescope having a main bodyand a base according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a schematic of a cut away side view of the riflescope with amain body having a glass etched reticle and a base with an integrateddisplay system according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a representative schematic of showing a side cutaway view ofan integrated display system according to one embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 14 is a schematic of a cut away side view of a main body of aviewing optic and a base with an integrated display system, with thebase coupled to at least a portion of the main body according to oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a representative depiction of an integrated display systemfor imaging the digital display onto a first focal plane of an opticsystem of the main body of the viewing optic according to one embodimentof the disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a schematic of a main body of a viewing optic and a base withan integrated display system with an active display located in a portionof the base closest to the objective assembly as compared to the ocularassembly of the main body of the viewing optic according to oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a schematic of a main body of a viewing optic and a base withan integrated display system with an active display located in a portionof the base closest to the ocular assembly as compared to the objectiveassembly of the main body of the viewing optic according to oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a representative schematic showing aspect ratio of amicro-display according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 19 depicts an integrated display system with a 530 nm-570 nmdigital display according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a schematic of exemplary images that can be displayed with a530 nm-570 nm digital display according to one embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 21 depicts an integrated display system with an AMOLED digitaldisplay according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 22 is a schematic of exemplary images that can be displayed with anAMOLED digital display according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 23 is a representative schematic of a side cutaway view showing anactive display and an optics system having an inner and an outer lenscell according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 24 is a side cutaway view of an integrated display system with acollector optics system installed into a viewing optic according to oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 25 is a representative schematic of a top view of an integrateddisplay system with an active display, a collector optics system havingan inner cell, and an outer cell, a mirror and a screw for adjustingtilt of a active display according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 26 is a representative schematic of a rear cutaway view of anintegrated display system with an active display, a collector opticssystem having an inner cell, and an outer cell, a mirror and a screw foradjusting tilt of a active display according to one embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 27 is a representative depiction of a side cutaway view showing amicro display, inner and outer lens cells, and a spring located betweenthe inner and outer cells according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 28 is a representative depiction of an integrated display systemshowing a surface that can be used to adjust position of inner lens celland eliminate parallax error according to one embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 29 is a representative depiction of a side cutaway view of anintegrated display system with a microdisplay, optics system, and amirror with tilt adjustment capabilities installed into a viewing opticaccording to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 30 is a representative schematic of a left side view of a batterycompartment in a base that can couple to a main body of a riflescopeaccording to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 31 is a representative schematic of a right side view of anintegrated battery compartment in a base that can couple to a main bodyof a riflescope according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 32 is a representative schematic of a top view of an integratedbattery compartment in base that can couple to a main body of ariflescope according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 33 is a representative schematic of a side view of a base with abattery compartment that can be used to couple to a picatinny mountaccording to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 34 is a representative schematic of a front view of cantileveredpicatinny mount coupled to a battery compartment of a base according toone embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 35 is a representative schematic of a top view of cantileveredpicatinny mount coupled to a battery compartment of a base according toone embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 36 is a representative schematic of a side profile view of theriflescope with a main body and a base having axially orientateddata/communication connections according to one embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 37 a representative schematic of a riflescope with a main body anda base having one or more connection interface for communicating with athermal imaging unit according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 38 is a back, left-side view of one embodiment of a riflescope witha laser rangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 39 is a back, right-side view of one embodiment of a riflescopewith a laser rangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 40 is a back, right-side view of one embodiment of a riflescopewith a laser rangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 41 is a front, left-side view of one embodiment of a riflescopewith a laser rangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 42 is a front, right-side view of one embodiment of a riflescopewith a laser rangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 43 is a left-side view of one embodiment of a riflescope with alaser rangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 44 is a right-side view of one embodiment a riflescope with a laserrangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 45 is a right-side view of one embodiment of a riflescope accordingto one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 46 is a top-side view of one embodiment of a riflescope accordingto one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 47 is a right-side view of one embodiment of a riflescope with alaser rangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 48 is a top-side view of one embodiment of a riflescope with alaser rangefinder according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 49 is a representative schematic of a holographic waveguide setupwith the digital display coupled into the waveguide and sent out of thesecond hologram which focuses the light onto a predetermined focal planeaccording to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 50 is a representative schematic of an alternative configuration ofa viewing optic according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 51 is a representative schematic of an alternative configuration ofa viewing optic according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 52 is a representative schematic of an alternative configuration ofa viewing optic according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The apparatuses and methods disclosed herein will now be described morefully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in whichembodiments of the disclosure are shown. The apparatuses and methodsdisclosed herein may, however, be embodied in many different forms andshould not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure will bethorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the inventionto those skilled in the art.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the set offeatures and/or capabilities may be readily adapted within the contextof a standalone weapons sight, front-mount or rear-mount clip-on weaponssight, and other permutations of filed deployed optical weapons sights.Further, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that variouscombinations of features and capabilities may be incorporated intoadd-on modules for retrofitting existing fixed or variable weaponssights of any variety.

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to asbeing “on”, “connected to” or “coupled to” another element or layer, itcan be directly on, connected or coupled to the other element or layer.Alternatively, intervening elements or layers may be present. Incontrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,”“directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element orlayer, there are no intervening elements or layers present.

Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. As used herein, the term“and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of theassociated listed items.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. maybe used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, and/orsections, these elements, components, regions, and/or sections shouldnot be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguishone element, component, region, or section from another element,component, region, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region,or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component,region, or section without departing from the disclosure.

Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,”“upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description todescribe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) orfeature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that thespatially relative terms are intended to encompass differentorientations of the device in use or operation in addition to theorientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in thefigures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” otherelements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elementsor features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can encompass both anorientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented(rotated 90° or at other orientations) and the spatially relativedescriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

All patents, patent applications, and non-patent literature referencesare incorporated herein in their entireties.

I. Definitions

The numerical ranges in this disclosure are approximate, and thus mayinclude values outside of the range unless otherwise indicated.Numerical ranges include all values from and including the lower and theupper values, in increments of one unit, provided that there is aseparation of at least two units between any lower value and any highervalue. As an example, if a compositional, physical or other property,such as, for example, molecular weight, viscosity, etc., is from 100 to1,000, it is intended that all individual values, such as 100, 101, 102,etc., and sub ranges, such as 100 to 144, 155 to 170, 197 to 200, etc.,are expressly enumerated. For ranges containing values which are lessthan one or containing fractional numbers greater than one (e.g., 1.1,1.5, etc.), one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1, asappropriate. For ranges containing single digit numbers less than ten(e.g., 1 to 5), one unit is typically considered to be 0.1. These areonly examples of what is specifically intended, and all possiblecombinations of numerical values between the lowest value and thehighest value enumerated, are to be considered to be expressly stated inthis disclosure. Numerical ranges are provided within this disclosurefor, among other things, distances from a user of a device to a target.

The term “and/or” as used in a phrase such as “A and/or B” herein isintended to include both A and B; A or B; A (alone); and B (alone).Likewise, the term “and/or” as used in a phrase such as “A, B, and/or C”is intended to encompass each of the following embodiments: A, B, and C;A, B, or C; A or C; A or B; B or C; A and C; A and B; B and C; A(alone); B (alone); and C (alone).

As used herein, an “active display” comprises image-creating pixelmodulation. In one embodiment, the active display is an emissive activedisplay. Emissive active displays, including but not limited to Organiclight-emitting diodes (OLED) and Light-Emitting Diodes (LED), featurethe image and light source in a single device, and therefore an externallight source is not required. This minimizes system size and powerconsumption, while providing exceptional contrast and color space. OLEDsare made from ultra-thin organic semiconducting layers, which light upwhen they are connected to voltage (charge carriers become injected andluminance mainly is proportional to the forward current). The majorlayers comprise several organic materials in sequence (for example,charge transport, blocking and emission layers each with a thickness ofseveral nanometers), which are inserted between an anode and a cathode.The terms “active display” and “microdisplay” are used interchangeably.

As used herein, an “erector sleeve” is a protrusion from the erectorlens mount which engages a slot in the erector tube and/or cam tube orwhich serves an analogous purpose. This could be integral to the mountor detachable.

As used herein, an “erector tube” is any structure or device having anopening to receive an erector lens mount.

As used herein, a “firearm” is a portable gun, being a barreled weaponthat launches one or more projectiles often driven by the action of anexplosive force. As used herein, the term “firearm” includes a handgun,a long gun, a rifle, shotgun, a carbine, automatic weapons,semi-automatic weapons, a machine gun, a sub-machine gun, an automaticrifle, and an assault rifle.

As used herein, an “integrated display system” refers to a system forgenerating an image. In one embodiment, the integrated display systemincludes an active display. In one embodiment, the integrated displaysystem includes an active display and collector optics. In yet anotherembodiment, the integrated display system includes an active display,collector optics, and a reflective surface.

In one embodiment, the integrated display system can be used to generatea digital image with an active display and direct the digital image intoa first focal plane of an optical system for simultaneous viewing of thedigital image and an image of an outward scene. As used herein, a“sighting system” refers to one or more optical devices and othersystems that assist a person in aiming a firearm or other implement.

As used herein, the term “viewing optic” refers to an apparatus used bya shooter or a spotter to select, identify or monitor a target. The“viewing optic” may rely on visual observation of the target, or, forexample, on infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), radar, thermal, microwave,or magnetic imaging, radiation including X-ray, gamma ray, isotope andparticle radiation, night vision, vibrational receptors includingultra-sound, sound pulse, sonar, seismic vibrations, magnetic resonance,gravitational receptors, broadcast frequencies including radio wave,television and cellular receptors, or other image of the target. Theimage of the target presented to the shooter by the “viewing optic”device may be unaltered, or it may be enhanced, for example, bymagnification, amplification, subtraction, superimposition, filtration,stabilization, template matching, or other means. The target selected,identified or monitored by the “viewing optic” may be within the line ofsight of the shooter, or tangential to the sight of the shooter, or theshooter's line of sight may be obstructed while the target acquisitiondevice presents a focused image of the target to the shooter. The imageof the target acquired by the “viewing optic” may be, for example,analog or digital, and shared, stored, archived, or transmitted within anetwork of one or more shooters and spotters by, for example, video,physical cable or wire, IR, radio wave, cellular connections, laserpulse, optical, 802.11b or other wireless transmission using, forexample, protocols such as html, SML, SOAP, X.25, SNA, etc., Bluetooth™,Serial, USB or other suitable image distribution method. The term“viewing optic” is used interchangeably with “optic sight.”

As used herein, the term “outward scene” refers to a real world scene,including but not limited to a target.

As used herein, the term “shooter” applies to either the operator makingthe shot or an individual observing the shot in collaboration with theoperator making the shot.

II. Viewing Optic

FIG. 1A illustrates the traditional design of a riflescope, which is arepresentative example of a viewing optic. FIG. 1B illustrates anexemplary viewing optic 10 in accordance with embodiments of thedisclosure. Specifically, FIG. 1B illustrates a riflescope. Moreparticularly, the riflescope 10 has a body 38 that encloses a movableoptical element 15. The body 38 is an elongate tube tapering from alarger opening at its front 40 to a smaller opening at its rear 42. Aneyepiece 56 is attached to the rear of the scope body, and an objectivelens 54 is attached to the front of the scope body. The center axis ofthe movable optical element defines the optical axis 44 of the riflescope.

An elevation turret 12 and a windage turret 48 are two dials that areoften found in the outside center part of the body 38. They are markedin increments by indicia 20 on their perimeters 11 and are used toadjust the elevation and windage of the movable optical element forpoints of impact change. These dials protrude from the turret housing50. The turrets are arranged so that the elevation turret rotation axis46 is perpendicular to the windage turret rotation axis 52.

FIG. 1C shows a cross-section view of the sighting device from FIG. 1Bwith the basic components of optical system 14 and moveable opticalelement 15. As shown in FIG. 1C, optical system 14 includes an objectivelens system 16, erector system 25, and eyepiece lens system 18. FIG. 1Cshows a riflescope having a body 38, but optical system 14 could be usedin other types of sighting devices as well. Erector system 25 may beincluded within a moveable optic element 15. In FIG. 1C, moveable opticelement 15 also includes a collector 22, as well as first focal planereticle 55 and second focal plane reticle 57. When in use, adjustment ofturret assembly 28 and turret screw 29 causes adjustment of moveableoptic element 15.

The movable optical element 15 is adjusted by rotating the turretassembly 28 one or more clicks. As the turret is rotated, a turret screw29 moves in and out of the scope, which pushes the erector tube. Theerector tube is biased by a spring so when the turret screw is adjusted,it locates the erector tube against the bottom face of the turret screw.The erector tube provides a smaller view of the total image. As theerector tube is adjusted, the position of the reticle is modifiedagainst the image.

A reticle is a circular, planar or flat transparent panel or diskmounted within the scope body in perpendicular relationship to theoptical axis or line-of-sight through the scope, and is positionedbetween the objective lens element 54 and the erector lens element,typically at a site considered to be a front focal plane of the opticalsystem within the housing. In one embodiment, the reticle contains fineetched lines or hairline indicia comprising a center vertical hairlineand a center horizontal hairline, which orthogonally or perpendicularlyintersect at a center point.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1D the viewing optic can have aparallax adjustment knob 70 or a focus knob. Parallax occurs when theoptical plane of the image of a target is not coplanar with the opticalplane of the image of the reticle. As a result of the offset between thetwo optical planes, the reticle can appear to move relative to thetarget when the marksman moves their eye around the center of thereticle. This parallax error can result in a shift in the point ofimpact from firing. The parallax adjustment of a viewing optic enablesthe marksman to eliminate optical error at different distances, byenabling the optical system to be adjusted to show the image of thetarget and the image of the reticle in the same optical plane. Parallaxcompensation changes neither the focus of the reticle nor the focus ofthe image; it simply moves the planes at which these two objects are infocus so that they share the same plane (are coincident).

As shown in FIG. 1D, the viewing optic can have a side wheel mounted tothe rotatable parallax adjustment knob 70. The larger diameter of theside wheel provides more space for markers, such as range marker, to beapplied, and is easier for the marksman to rotate and read when in use.The larger diameter of the side wheel serves to increase the accuracyand resolution of the range finding markers.

FIG. 1E shows a close-up view of an optical system 14 in cross-section,illustrating how light rays travel through the optical system 14.Optical system 14 may have additional optical components such ascollector 22, and it is well known within the art that certaincomponents, such as objective lens system 16, erector system 25, andeyepiece lens system 18 may themselves have multiple components orlenses.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can have a focusing cell having oneor more adjustable lens for providing parallax adjustment. In oneembodiment, the one or more adjustable lens is one or parallax lenses.

In one embodiment, a focus lens is located between an ocular lens and anobjective lens. The relative distance between the focus lens and theobjective lens is adjustable, for providing parallax adjustment. Inaddition, erector lenses are located between the ocular lens and thefocus lens. The relative distance between the erector lenses and theobjective lens is adjustable, for providing magnification adjustment.

III. Viewing Optic with an Active Display

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having anactive display that generates a digital image and projects the digitalimage into the first focal plane of the viewing optic. In oneembodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic that has an analogreticle and a digital image, including but not limited to a digitalreticle, visible to the user when looking through the viewing optic. Inone embodiment, the viewing optic can be used with an external laserrangefinder with ballistic calculation capability.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic has a moveable erector tube with ananalog reticle or a glass etched reticle that is mounted to the erectortube in such a way that the analog or glass etched reticle moves inconjunction with said erector tube. In one embodiment, the digitallyinjected reticle does not move in conjunction with the erector tube.Thus, the digital reticle is accurate regardless of the turret orerector tube position.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to viewing optic with adigital display that can be injected into the first focal plane of theviewing optic such that the image of the digital display on the firstfocal plane is not tied to the movement of the erector tube. In oneembodiment, the display can give users accurate ballistic hold points ofaim, regardless of the erector tube/turret position of the riflescope.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to viewing optic with anaiming point that is agnostic to the position of the erector tube and/orturret position of the viewing optic. In one embodiment, if aballistically determined aim point is beyond the field of view of theerector unit, the turrets can be dialed to bring the ballisticallydetermined aimpoint into the field of view.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic has a main optical system comprisedof an objective lens system that focuses an image from a target down toa first focal plane (hereafter referred to as the “FFP Target Image”),followed by an erector lens system that inverts the FFP Target Image andfocuses it to a second focal plane (hereafter referred to as the “SFPTarget Image”), a beam combiner that is placed between the objectivelens system and the FFP Target Image, an eyepiece lens system thatcollimates the SFP Target Image so that it can be observed by the humaneye, and a second optical system.

In one embodiment, the second optical system has an active display, anda lens system that collects the light from the active display. The imagefrom the digital display is directed to the beam combiner so that thedigital image and the target image from the objective lens system can becombined at the first focal plane and viewed simultaneously. In oneembodiment, the second optical system can have a reflective material,including but not limited to a mirror.

Referring to the description above, the digital display is injected intothe main optical system, between the objective lens system and the firstfocal plane, and then is focused onto the first focal plane. At thefirst focal plane, both the digital image from the digital display andthe analog/glass etched reticle attached to the erector lens systemshare the same plane. However, the analog reticle is attached to amoveable erector lens system, while the image from the digital displayis not. Therefore, if the erector lens system is moved, the analogreticle will move, but the digital image will remain stationary.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can be rigidly mounted to afirearm. In another embodiment, a laser rangefinder can be mounted toeither the firearm or the viewing optic. The laser rangefinder measuresthe distance to the target, computes the ballistics for hitting thattarget, provides that information into the active display so that thecorrect point of aim can be displayed with the point of impact of therifle bullet.

It is important that the digital image remain stationary because thelaser range finder is rigidly attached to viewing optic and its point ofaim does not move. This allows the digital display to be digitallyadjusted so that the digital laser designator corresponds with the laseron initial setup, and then the two will always remain in alignment, nomatter how the erector lens system is moved.

Additionally, the barrel of a firearm is rigidly attached to the viewingoptic, so the point of aim of the barrel never changes in relation tothe digital display. This allows the digital display to be digitallyadjusted so that a digital aim point corresponds with the barrel of thefirearm at its initial “sight-in” distance during initial setup, andthen the two will always remain in alignment.

When the need arises to shoot at different distances than the initialsight-in distance, the laser range finder can measure the distance andthen do ballistic calculations to determine the new location of thepoint of aim. That new point of aim location is always relative to theinitial sight in distance, so the riflescope simply needs to adjust thedigital display aim point to correspond with the new point of aim.

A side benefit of this system is that, because the digital aim point isstationary, the user can easily test the accuracy of the turrets on theviewing optic that adjust the erector tube position using a reticle thathas predetermined marks on it at regular intervals. As the erector tubemoves, the reticle can be measured against the stationary digital aimpoint to see if the adjustment dialed on the turrets match the amount ofmovement measured between the digital aim point and the reticle attachedto the erector lens system.

IV. Viewing Optic with a Base

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic, includingbut not limited to a riflescope, having a first housing coupled to asecond housing. In one embodiment, the first housing is a main body. Inyet another embodiment, the second housing is a base.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a riflescope having a mainbody and a base coupled to the main body. In one embodiment, the base isseparable from the main body. In one embodiment, the base is attached toa bottom portion of the main body. In one embodiment, a gasket is usedto enclose the main body and the base.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a riflescope having a mainbody with an optics system for generating images of an outward scene anda base coupled to the main body with an integrated display system forgenerating digital images and directing the digital images into a firstfocal plane of the optics system, thereby providing simultaneous viewingof the digital images and images of the outward scene.

In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a riflescope having amain body with an optics system for generating images of an outwardscene and a base coupled to the main body with an integrated displaysystem having an active display for generating images and directing thegenerated images into a first focal plane of the optics system providingsimultaneous viewing of the generated images and images of the outwardscene when looking through an eyepiece of the scope body.

In a representative embodiment, FIG. 2 displays a side view of ariflescope 200 with a main body 210 and a base 220. In one embodiment,the base 220 is separable from the main body 210. The base 220 attachesat one end of the scope body near the magnification ring 212 and at theother end of the scope body near the objective assembly 214. In oneembodiment, the main body 210 and the base 220 are made of the samematerial. In another embodiment, the scope body and the base are made ofdifferent material.

In one embodiment, the base 220 is approximately the length of theerector tube of the main body.

In one embodiment, the base has an integrated display system that cangenerate and display situational, geographical, and ballisticinformation in the first focal plane of the viewing optic including butnot limited to: real time ballistic solutions; next round ballisticcorrection through in-flight tracer round detection and tracking; weaponpointing angle tracking using integrated high performance inertialsensors; precise pointing angle comparisons for advanced ballistictargeting and correction; target location and designation; pressure,humidity, and temperature; anti-fratricide and situational awarenessdata can be processed by the device and viewed while sighting; reticletargeting correction beyond scopes field of view for convenientballistic drop correction at long ranges; weapon, round, andenvironmental characterization data.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic has one or more of the followingcapabilities and/or components: one or more microprocessors, one or morecomputers, a fully integrated ballistic computer; an integrated nearinfrared Laser Rangefinder; an integrated GPS and digital compass withthe viewing optic capable of full coordinate target location anddesignation; integrated sensors for pressure, humidity, and temperaturewith the viewing optic capable of automatically incorporating this datain ballistic calculations; conventional viewing optic capabilities inall conditions, including zero-power off mode; wired and wirelessinterfaces for communication of sensor, environmental, and situationalawareness data; ability to support digital interfaces such as PersonalNetwork Node (PNN) and Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW); integrated tiltsensitivity with respect to vertical with ballistic correction possiblefor uphill and downhill shooting orientations; integrated imagingsensor; acquiring and processing target scene image frames; ability torecord firing time history for purposes of applying cold bore/hot boreshot correction in an automated fashion; and built in backup opticalrange estimation capability with automatic angular to linear sizeconversion.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can communicate wirelessly with oneor more devices. In another embodiment, the viewing optic cancommunicate via a physical cable with one or more devices.

A. Main Body

In one embodiment, the main body is the shape of an elongate tube, whichtapers from a larger opening at its front to a smaller opening at itsrear and an eyepiece attached to the rear of the elongate tube, and anobjective lens attached to the front of the elongate tube. In oneembodiment, the first housing is a main body of a riflescope.

In one embodiment, the main body has a viewing input end, and a viewingoutput end, which can be aligned along viewing optical axis 44 (FIG.1B), and can be inline. Objects or targets can be directly viewed by theeye of the user through the viewing input end, along the viewing directview optics, and out the viewing output end. The main body can includean objective lens or lens assembly at the viewing input end. A firstfocal plane reticle can be positioned and spaced along the viewingoptical axis A from the objective lens assembly.

In one embodiment, a picture or image reversal lens assembly can bepositioned and spaced rearwardly along the viewing optical axis A fromthe first focal plane reticle. An erector tube having an erecting imagesystem is located within the main body between the objective lens andthe ocular lens in order to flip the image. This gives the image thecorrect orientation for land viewing. The erecting image system isusually contained within an erector tube.

The reversal lens assembly or erecting image system can comprise one ormore lenses spaced apart from each other. The erector image system mayinclude one or more movable optical elements, such as a focus lens thatis movable along its optical axis to adjust the focus of the image and amagnification lens movable along its optical axis to optically magnifythe image at the rear focal plane so that the target appears closer thanits actual distance. Typically, the erector assembly includes amechanical, electro-mechanical, or electro-optical system to drivecooperative movement of both the focus lens and one or morepower-varying lens elements of the magnification lens to provide acontinuously variable magnification range throughout which the erectorassembly produces a focused, erect image of the distant target at therear focal plane.

Variable magnification can be achieved by providing a mechanism foradjusting the position of the erector lenses in relationship to eachother within the erector tube. This is typically done through the use ofa cam tube that fits closely around the erector tube. Each erector lens(or lens group) is mounted in an erector lens mount that slides withinthe erector tube. An erector sleeve attached to the erector lens mountslides in a straight slot in the body of the erector tube to maintainthe orientation of the erector lens. The erector sleeve also engages anangled, or curving, slot in the cam tube. Turning the cam tube causesthe erector lens mount to move lengthwise within the guide tube, varyingthe magnification. Each erector lens will have its own slot in the camtube and the configuration of these slots determines the amount and rateof magnification change as the cam tube is turned.

An aperture in a second focal plane can be positioned and spacedrearwardly along the viewing optical axis A from the picture reversalassembly. An ocular lens assembly can be positioned and spacedrearwardly along the viewing optical axis A from the aperture in thesecond focal plane, at the eyepiece. The ocular lens assembly caninclude one or more lenses spaced apart from each other. In someembodiments, the viewing optical axis A and the direct viewing opticscan be folded.

In one embodiment, the main body has a beam combiner. In one embodiment,the beam combiner can be positioned on and optically coupled to aviewing optical axis 44 as shown in FIG. 1B. In one embodiment, a beamcombiner can be positioned near a viewing optic reticle. In anotherembodiment, a beam combiner can be positioned near a first focal planeviewing optic reticle.

In one embodiment, the beam combiner is located between the objectiveassembly and the first focal plane.

In still another embodiment, the main body has a beam combiner, whereinthe beam combiner is not located near the ocular assembly. In oneembodiment, the beam combiner is not located beneath the ocularassembly.

In one embodiment, the main body has a beam combiner that is locatedcloser to the objective assembly as compared to the ocular assembly inthe main tube of the viewing optic.

FIG. 3 displays a side cut-away view of a riflescope 300 with a mainbody 210 and a base 220. As shown, riflescope 300 has an objectiveassembly 310, a beam combiner 320, a first focal plane 330, a secondfocal plane 350, and an ocular assembly 360. The beam combiner 320 islocated between the objective assembly 310 and the first focal plane330.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic 400 can have a main body 210 thatis longitudinally split to allow for assembly of the associated lensesand circuitry in the base 220. FIG. 4 is a representative example of alongitudinally split main tube 210 of a riflescope 400. FIG. 4 depictsthe parting line 410 of the longitudinally split main tube. The split420 in the bottom side of the main body 210 allows for coupling of abase 220 having an integrated display system.

In one embodiment, the bottom side of the main body has a longitudinalsplit. In one embodiment, the longitudinal split is approximately thelength of the base that couples to the main body.

1. Beam Combiner

In one embodiment, the main body of the viewing optic has a beamcombiner. In one embodiment, the beam combiner is one or more prismaticlenses (the prismatic lenses constitute the beam combiner). In anotherembodiment, the main body of the riflescope has a beam combiner thatcombines images generated from an integrated display system with imagesgenerated from the viewing optics along the viewing optical axis of theriflescope. In one embodiment, the integrated display system is locatedin a housing, which is separate and distinct from the main body. In oneembodiment, the integrated display system is in a base that couples tothe first housing or main body. In one embodiment, the integrateddisplay system is in a cavity of a base that couples to the firsthousing or main body.

In one embodiment, a beam combiner is used to combine a generated imagefrom an integrated display system with an image from an optical systemfor viewing an outward image, wherein the optical system is located in amain body of a riflescope, in front of a first focal plane in the mainbody, and then the combined image is focused onto the first focal plane,such that the generated image and the viewed image did not move inrelation to one another. With the combined image focused onto the firstfocal plane, an aiming reference generated by the integrated displaysystem will be accurate regardless of adjustments to the movable erectorsystem.

In one embodiment, a beam combiner can be aligned with the integrateddisplay system along the display optical axis, and positioned along theviewing optical axis of the viewing optics of the main body of ariflescope, thereby allowing for the images from the integrated displayto be directed onto the viewing optical axis for combining with thefield of view of the viewing optics in an overlaid manner.

In another embodiment, the beam combiner and the integrated displaysystem are in the same housing. In one embodiment, the beam combiner isapproximately 25 mm from the objective assembly.

In one embodiment, the beam combiner is approximately 5 mm distance fromthe objective assembly. In one embodiment the beam combiner ispositioned at a distance from the objective assembly including but notlimited to from 1 mm to 5 mm, or from 5 mm to 10 mm or from 5 mm to 15mm, or from 5 mm to 20 mm, or from 5 mm to 30 mm, or from 5 mm to 40 mmor from 5 to 50 mm.

In yet another embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distancefrom the objective assembly including but not limited to from 1 mm to 4mm, or from 1 mm to 3 mm, or from 1 mm to 2 mm.

In one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance fromthe objective assembly including but not limited to at least 3 mm, atleast 5 mm, at least 10 mm, and at least 20 mm. In yet anotherembodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from theobjective assembly from 3 mm to 10 mm.

In another embodiment, the beam combiner is approximately 150 mmdistance from the ocular assembly. In one embodiment the beam combineris positioned at a distance from the ocular assembly including but notlimited to from 100 mm to 200 mm or from 125 mm to 200 mm or from 150 mmto 200 mm or from 175 mm to 200 mm.

In one embodiment the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from theocular assembly including but not limited to from 100 mm to 175 mm orfrom 100 mm to 150 mm or from 100 mm to 125 mm.

In one embodiment the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from theocular assembly including but not limited to from 135 mm to 165 mm orfrom 135 mm to 160 mm or from 135 mm to 155 mm or from 135 mm to 150 mmor from 135 mm to 145 mm or from 135 mm to 140 mm.

In one embodiment the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from theocular assembly including but not limited to from 140 mm to 165 mm orfrom 145 mm to 165 mm or from 150 mm to 165 mm or from 155 mm to 165 mmor from 160 mm to 165 mm.

In one embodiment the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from theocular assembly including but not limited to at least 140 mm or at least145 mm or at least 150 mm or at least 155 mm.

In still another embodiment, the main body has a beam combiner, whereinthe beam combiner is located beneath the elevation turret on the outsidecenter part of the scope body.

In one embodiment, the beam combiner can have a partially reflectingcoating or surface that reflects and redirects the output or at least aportion of the active display output from the integrated display systemonto the viewing axis to the viewer's eye at eyepiece while stillproviding good transmissive see-through qualities for the direct viewingoptics path.

In one embodiment, the beam combiner can be a cube made of opticalmaterial, such as optical glass or plastic materials with a partiallyreflective coating. The coating can be a uniform and neutral colorreflective coating, or can be tailored with polarizing, spectrallyselective or patterned coatings to optimize both the transmission andreflection properties in the eyepiece. The polarization and/or color ofthe coating can be matched to the active display. This can optimizereflectance and efficiency of the display optical path with minimalimpact to the direct viewing optics transmission path.

Although the beam combiner is shown as a cube, in some embodiments, thebeam combiner can have different optical path lengths for the integrateddisplay system, and the direct viewing optics along viewing optical axisA. In some embodiments, the beam combiner can be of a plate form, wherea thin reflective/transmissive plate can be inserted in the directviewing optics path across the optical axis A.

In one embodiment, the position of the beam combiner can be adjusted inrelation to the reflective material to eliminate any errors, includingbut not limited to parallax error. The position of the beam combiner canadjusted using a screw system, a wedge system or any other suitablemechanism.

In one embodiment, the position of the beam combiner can be adjusted inrelation to the erector tube to eliminate any errors, including but notlimited to parallax error.

2. Parallax System

In one embodiment, main body has a parallax adjustment system. In oneembodiment, the parallax adjustment system uses a device to connect afocusing cell to the parallax adjustment element.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic disclosed herein has a main bodywith a focusing cell located closer to the objective end as compared toa traditional focusing cell and a beam combiner located in a spacetraditionally occupied by the focusing cell. In one embodiment, aconnecting element connects the focusing cell to a parallax adjustmentelement.

In a typical riflescope, as depicted in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, theparallax knob 510 is connected to the focusing cell via a simple crosspin 520 that rides on a cam groove 530 in the parallax knob, convertingthe rotational motion of the knob into linear motion within the focusingcell. However, in some embodiments disclosed herein, the focusing cellis shifted toward the objective side, and thus, a connecting device isneeded to connect the focusing cell to the parallax adjustment element.

The parallax adjustment system can eliminate or reduce parallax errorbetween the image of the active display and a reticle in the main bodyof the viewing optic. The parallax adjustment system disclosed hereinallows for a viewing optic having a digital display image and an imageof an outward scene integrated into a first focal plane (FFP) of anoptic system without parallax error.

In another embodiment, the focusing cell is located closer to theobjective side of the main body as compared to the focusing cell of atraditional riflescope. In one embodiment, the focusing cell is shiftedfrom about 5 mm to about 50 mm closer to the objective as compared to afocusing cell of a traditional riflescope. In one embodiment, thefocusing cell is shifted at least 20 mm closer to the objective ascompared to a focusing cell of a traditional riflescope. In oneembodiment, the focusing cell is shifted at least 10 mm closer to theobjective as compared to a focusing cell of a traditional riflescope. Inyet another embodiment, the focusing cell is shifted no more than 50 mmcloser to the objective side as compared to a focusing cell of atraditional riflescope. In one embodiment, the focusing cell is shifted30 mm closer to the objective assembly as compared to the location of afocusing cell in a Vortex Diamondback riflescope, Vortex Viperriflescope, Vortex Crossfire riflescope, Vortex Razor riflescope.

In one embodiment the focusing cell is shifted closer to the objectiveas compared to a focusing cell of a traditional riflescope including butnot limited to 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28,29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, and 40 mm closer to theobjective side of the viewing optic.

In one embodiment, a device connects the shifted focusing cell to theadjustment knob. In one embodiment, the device allows for the remotelocation of the parallax adjustment lenses located in the focusing cell.In one embodiment, the mechanical device is a push-rod, a rod, a shaft,

In one embodiment, the rod is from about 5 mm to about 50 mm in length.In one embodiment, the rod is at least 20 mm in length. In oneembodiment, the rod is at least 10 mm in length. In yet anotherembodiment, the rod is no more than 50 mm in length.

In one embodiment the rod is 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, and 40 mm inlength.

FIGS. 5C-5F are representative schematics of a parallax adjustmentsystem in the main tube 210 of a viewing optic according to oneembodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5C, a device, such as arod or shaft, 530 connects the focusing cell (parallax lenses) 535,which have been moved closer to the objective end of the viewing optic,to a parallax cam track pin 540 within the parallax adjustment knobassembly. The shifted location of the parallax lenses provides thenecessary space for the prismatic lenses forward of the first focalplane. One end of the connecting rod is coupled to the focusing cell andthe other end of the connecting rod is coupled to a cam pin.

FIG. 5D shows the device 530 connecting the focusing cell 535 having theparallax lenses to the parallax cam track pin 540, which rides in thecam track 545 of the parallax adjustment assembly 550. In oneembodiment, the parallax adjustment assembly 550 has a rotatable elementto move the cam pin and adjust the parallax lenses.

As shown in FIG. 5E, in order to provide space in the main body of theviewing optic for the beam combiner (prismatic lenses), the focusingshell is shifted closer to the objective assembly. Thus, a mechanism isneeded to connect the focusing cell to the parallax knob assembly. Aconnecting device 530 connects the focusing cell to a cam pin 540 thatrides in a cam groove of the parallax knob assembly 560.

As shown in FIG. 5F the cam pin 540 rides in a cam groove 545 of theparallax knob assembly 560, allowing adjustment of the focusing cell viathe parallax knob assembly.

In one embodiment, the shifted focusing cell, which has the parallaxlenses, in the main body provides space to integrate a beam combinerahead of a first focal plane of the objective system.

In one embodiment, the beam combiner in the main body of the riflescopedisclosed herein is located in the space where the focusing cell istypically mounted in a traditional riflescope.

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic comprising:(a) a main tube; (b) an objective system coupled to a first end of themain tube; (c) an ocular system coupled to the second end of the maintube, (d) a focusing cell located between the objective system and abeam combiner, wherein the beam combiner is positioned between thefocusing cell and a first focal plane reticle; and (e) a rod connectingthe focusing cell to a parallax adjustment element. In one embodiment,the rod connects the focusing cell to a cam pin of the parallaxadjustment element. In some embodiments, the parallax adjustment elementhas a knob.

3. Magnification Tracking System

When a reticle is in the first focal plane, the reticle is in front ofthe erector system and thus the reticle changes proportionally with thechange in lens position creating a magnified image. The erector systemchanges position through the use of a magnification ring that is locatedon the external portion of a rifle scope near the ocular housing.Typically, a magnification ring is connected with a screw to an outererector sleeve, forcing the outer erector sleeve to rotate with themagnification ring when rotated causing cam grooves to change theposition of the zoom lenses located in the erector system. Whenprojecting a digital image onto the first focal plane it is necessary toscale that image with the scaling of the reticle to make the digitalimage usable.

In one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 6, a potentiometer wiper 610 islocated on the outside diameter of an outer erecter sleeve 620. Thepotentiometer wiper contacts a membrane potentiometer 710 located on theinternal diameter of the main body 210 of the riflescope (see FIG. 7).

As shown in FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the potentiometer wiper 610 is aflat spring with two points of contact to insure it maintains contactwith the membrane potentiometer 710. The flat spring is located betweenthe outer erector sleeve 620 and inner erector tube. The potentiometerwiper 610 is located on the inside diameter of the riflescope on theopposing inner wall of the magnification ring slot screw 820. Thepotentiometer wiper 610 is fastened to the side inner side of the scopetube using adhesive.

In one embodiment, the potentiometer wiper has the ability to laycompletely flat on the outside diameter of the outer erector sleeve. Inone embodiment, the potentiometer wiper is placed internally on theouter erector sleeve.

In one embodiment, the potentiometer wiper is not placed on themagnification ring 810 of FIG. 8.

The magnification tracking system disclosed herein is located internallyand no part is exposed to the environment, which offers a fewadvantages. First, the system is internal resulting in no seals beingneeded to protect the wiper/erector system from the environment.Secondly, magnification tracking system is completed when the erectorsystem is installed into the riflescope. This eliminates the possibilityfor debris to enter the system through a screw hole on the exterior ofthe magnification ring.

4. Additional Components

In one embodiment, viewing optic can be controlled by buttons that areintegral to the riflescope or externally attached buttons.

In one embodiment, the main body of the viewing optic can have a camerasystem.

In one embodiment, the main body of the viewing optic may have one ormore computational systems. The integrated display system describedbelow may be in communication with, or otherwise associated with thecomputational system. In some embodiments, the computational system maybe enclosed within the first housing or body of the viewing optic. Insome embodiments, the computational system may be coupled to an exteriorportion of the viewing optic.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of various electronic components of theviewing optic according to an embodiment of the disclosure. A battery902 can provide power to a computational system or control module 904and an active display 906. In one embodiment, the computational system904 may include, without limitation, a user interface 908, data inputdevice 914, a processor 910, memory 916, and one or more sensors 912.

In one embodiment, the user interface 908 may include a plurality ofinput and/or output devices such as buttons, keys, knobs, touchscreens,displays, speakers, microphones, etc. Some components of the userinterface such as, for example, buttons, may be used to manually enterdata such as, for example, wind data, display intensity data, reticleintensity data, ballistic profile data, ballistic coefficient data,muzzle velocity data, primary zero data, static conditions of therifle-scope system, GPS coordinate data, compass coordinate data,sight-above-bore data, etc. This data may be received by the processorand saved into the memory. The data may also be used by the processor inan algorithm or to execute an algorithm.

The data input device 914 may include wired or wireless communicationsdevices and/or may include any type of data transfer technology such as,for example, a USB port, a mini USB port, a memory card slot (e.g., amicroSD slot), NFC transceiver, Bluetooth® transceiver, Firewire, aZigBee® transceiver, a Wi-Fi transceiver, an 802.6 device, cellularcommunication devices, and the like. It is noted that, while termed adata input device, such may be used in two way communications, providingdata output as well.

In one embodiment, the processor 910 may be any type of processor knownin the art that may receive inputs, execute algorithms and/or processes,and may include, without limitation, one or more general-purposeprocessors and/or one or more special-purpose processors (such asdigital signal processing chips, graphics acceleration chips, and/or thelike). The processor may be used to control various processes,algorithms, and/or methods in the operation of the riflescope. Theprocessor may control operation of a display system and/or a reticle.The processor may also receive inputs from the user interface, the datainput, the memory, the sensor(s), a position encoder associated with theposition of an adjustable component (e.g., the vertical adjustment knob,the windage adjustment knob or the parallax dial), and/or from othersources.

In one embodiment, memory 916 may include any type of digital datastorage such as such as random access memory (“RAM”) and/or read-onlymemory (“ROM”), which can be programmable, flash-updateable, and/or thelike. In other embodiments, the memory may include memory from anexternally connected device including, for example, a disk drive, adrive array, an optical storage device, or a solid-state storage device.In some embodiments, the memory may be configured to store ballisticinformation that includes data that can be used, for example, to correctfor the amount a bullet may drop over a given distance and/or thehorizontal deflection of the bullet.

Data may be entered from another device (e.g., the processor may receivedata via the data input device that may be entered from another devicesuch as computer, laptop, GPS device, a rangefinder, tablet, orsmartphone, etc.) and stored into the memory. Such data may include, forexample, calibration data, a ballistic profile lookup table thatcross-references rotational data and/or linear data with shoot-to-rangevalues, rifle data, projectile data, user data, etc.

The sensor(s) 912 may be used to sense any of a variety of environmentalconditions or characteristics associated with the use of the riflescope.For example, the sensor(s) may sense atmospheric conditions (such ashumidity, temperature, pressure, etc.), inclination, rifle cant, and/orthe sight direction of the rifle (compass direction). Any number ofsensors may be included. Sensor data may be recorded by the processorand saved into the memory and/or used in the processing of instructionsfor operation of the viewing optic.

The control module 904 may also include software elements, which may belocated within working memory 916. The software elements may include anoperating system and/or other code, such as one or more applicationprograms.

In one embodiment, a camera can communicate with control module.

B. Second Housing

In one embodiment, the second housing is coupled to the first housingand contains an integrated display system. In one embodiment, the secondhousing is a base coupled to a portion of the main body of a viewingoptic. In one embodiment, the base is separable from the main body of aviewing optic.

In one embodiment, the second housing is not an image stabilizationdevice. In one embodiment, the length of the base having an integrateddisplay system is from 35% to 70% the length of the main body of ariflescope to which the base is coupled. In yet another embodiment, thebase having an integrated display system is from 40% to 65% the lengthof the main body of a riflescope to which the base is coupled. In stillanother embodiment, the base having an integrated display system is nomore than 65% of the length of the main body of the riflescope to whichthe base is coupled.

In one embodiment, the main body of the riflescope is about 2.5× thelength of the base having an integrated display system. In yet anotherembodiment, the main body is from 1.5× to 2.5× the length of the basehaving an integrated display system. In yet another embodiment, the mainbody is at least 1.5× the length of the base having an integrateddisplay system.

As shown in FIG. 2, the base 220 can be bolted to the scope body 210 ofthe riflescope to form a totally enclosed and integrated system. Thebase 220 can then be directly attached to the firearm without the needfor traditional riflescope rings.

FIG. 10 displays a top view of the riflescope 200 with a main body 210and a base 220. FIG. 10 demonstrates that the base 220 does not causethe riflescope to bulge at any position or be out of proportion with atraditional riflescope. The riflescope disclosed herein having a mainbody and a base maintains the traditional, sleek design of a riflescope.

FIG. 11 displays the base 220 attached to the main body 210 of theriflescope. The base 220 is aligned and flush with the outer edges ofthe main body 210.

In one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 2, the base having an integrateddisplay system is coupled to the bottom side of the main body 210 of theriflescope, with one end of the base coupling at approximately the powerselection ring or magnification ring 212 of the main body 210 and theother end of the base coupling at about the start of the objectiveassembly 214 of the main body. In one embodiment, the base 220 iscoupled to the main body 210 by threaded fasteners, unthreaded integraland non-integral locating and recoil transmission features, and anelastomeric seal.

In one embodiment, the base can be populated with the componentsnecessary for generating a digital display and then the base can bebolted to the main body of the riflescope to form a totally enclosed andintegrated system.

In one embodiment, a viewing optic, which has a main body and a basecoupled to the main body, can be coupled to a firearm without the needfor traditional riflescope rings. In one embodiment, a viewing optic hasa main body and a base coupled to the main body, wherein the bottom sideof the base has a mounting rail.

In one embodiment, the base of the viewing optic can include a mountingrail for mounting to a desired firearm, equipment or device, and canhave an adjustment mechanism including an elevation adjustment drum foradjusting the elevational position of the optics. A lateral adjustmentmechanism is also typically provided for side-to-side adjustment. Theadjustment mechanisms can be covered with a protection cap.

In one embodiment, the top side of the base couples to the bottom-sideof the main body of a viewing optic and the bottom-side of the base hasa mounting rail. In one embodiment, the top side of the base couples toa lateral split in the bottom-side of the main body of a viewing optic.

In one embodiment, the base comprises an integrated display system forgenerating images with an active display and directing the images alongthe display optical axis for simultaneous overlaid viewing of thegenerated images with images of the outward scene, wherein the generatedimage is injected into the first focal plane of a main body of a viewingoptic.

1. Integrated Display System

In one embodiment, the second housing comprises an integrated displaysystem. In another embodiment, a base comprises an integrated displaysystem. In yet another embodiment, the base having an integrated displaysystem is coupled to a main body of a riflescope. In still anotherembodiment, the base is coupled to a bottom portion of a main body of ariflescope.

In one embodiment, the base has an integrated display system comprisingan active display, collector optics, and a reflective material,including but not limited to a mirror. In one embodiment, the integrateddisplay system has the following architecture: an active display,followed by collector optics, followed by a reflective material such asa mirror.

FIG. 12 depicts a top cut-away view of the base 220 that couples to amain body of a viewing optic. The base 220 comprises an integrateddisplay system having a micro display 1210, collector optics 1220, and amirror 1230. In one embodiment, the mirror 1230 can be positioned at anysuitable angle.

FIG. 13 depicts a side cut-away view of a base 220 with an integrateddisplay system having a micro display 1210, collector optics 1220, and amirror 1230. A main body 210 has a beam combiner 320 located above themirror 1230.

FIG. 14 depicts a side cut-away view of riflescope with a main body 210and a separable base 220. The base 220 comprises a micro display 1210,collector optics 1220, and a mirror 1230. The mirror 1230 is positionedat about 45 degrees. The scope body 210 has a beam combiner 320 that islocated approximately above the angled mirror 1230. The beam combiner320 is located approximately below the elevation adjustment knob 1410 ofthe scope body 210. The active display 1210 is located in the base onthe ocular assembly side 1420 when the base 220 is coupled to the mainbody 210 of the viewing optic.

As depicted in FIG. 15, the images generated from the micro display 1210can be redirected from the display optical axis A onto the viewingoptical axis A through a mirror 1230 to a beam combiner 320 in the mainbody 210 for simultaneously superimposing or overlaying into the firstfocal plane 1510 the digital images onto the images of the scene viewedby the viewer through the optics. Because the beam combiner 320 ispositioned before the first focal plane 1510, and the combined image isfocused on the first focal plane, the displayed image and the viewedimage do not move in relation to one another. This is a majoradvancement compared to devices that inject the image into the secondfocal plane.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, the active display 1210 islocated in a portion of the base closest to the objective assembly 214as compared to the ocular assembly of the main body of a riflescope,when the base is coupled to the main body of a riflescope. The main bodyof the riflescope has an analog reticle 1610.

FIG. 17 depicts the riflescope 200 with a main body 210 with a beamcombiner 320 and a base 220 coupled to the main body and having anintegrated display system. As shown in FIG. 17, the active display 1210is located in a portion of the base closest to the ocular assembly ascompared to the objective assembly of the main body of a riflescope,when the base is coupled to the main body of a riflescope. Bysuperimposing the image from the integrated display system onto thefirst focal plane, the user is still able to use a traditional glassetched reticle 1610 for aiming purposes.

In one embodiment, the integrated display system can direct generatedimages from the active display along a display optical axis A. Thegenerated images can be directed from the display optical axis A to amirror in the base to a beam combiner in a main body of a riflescope forsimultaneously superimposing or overlaying the generated images onto theimages of the scene viewed by the viewer through an optics system of themain body, wherein the combined image is injected into or focused ontothe first focal plane of the optic system of the main body.

In one embodiment, the image generated from the active display in thebase is focused on the first focal plane of the main body of ariflescope, which allows the display generated images to maintainalignment with externally mounted accessories.

In one embodiment, the image generated from the active display in thebase is focused on the first focal plane of the main body of ariflescope, thus, the generated image is not tied to the movement of theerector tube. The generated image is independent of movement of theerector tube.

In one embodiment, light from an active micro-display is collected by agroup of optical lenses. The light from the display is reflected to abeam combiner in the riflescope main tube assembly and an image of thedisplay is formed that is coincident with the first focal plane of theriflescope. This image of the display is combined with the image comingfrom the scene (target) and is perceived as being “underneath” thetraditional wire or glass etched reticle. In one embodiment, the“traditional” reticle, which is still utilized, occludes both the imageof the scene and the image of the display. If the luminance of thedisplay is increased to sufficient brightness levels, the image of theOLED display will saturate the image of the scene and will appear toocclude the scene as well.

In yet another embodiment, the integrated display system in the base candirect generated images along a display optical axis “B,” onto viewingoptical axis A in the main body of a riflescope. The images can beredirected from the display optical axis B with a mirror or similarreflective material in the base to a beam combiner in the main body ontothe viewing optical axis A in the main body, which allows forsimultaneously superimposing or overlaying the generated images onto theimages of the scene viewed by the viewer through the optics of the mainbody. The generated images from the active display in the base aredirected toward a mirror, which reflects the images to a beam combiner.

In one embodiment, display optical axis “B” and viewing optical axis “A”are substantially parallel, although other embodiments may bedifferently oriented as desired.

A. Active Display

In one embodiment, the integrated display system has an active display.In one embodiment, the active display is controlled by a microcontrolleror computer. In one embodiment, the active display is controlled by amicrocontroller with an integrated graphics controller to output videosignals to the display. In one embodiment, information can be sentwirelessly or via a physical connection into the viewing optic via acable port. In still another embodiment, numerous input sources can beinput to the microcontroller and displayed on the active display.

In one embodiment, the active display can be a reflective, transmissiveor an emissive micro-display including but not limited to a microdisplay, transmissive active matrix LCD display (AMLCD), Organiclight-emitting diode (OLED) display, Light-Emitting Diode (LED) display,e-ink display, a plasma display, a segment display, anelectroluminescent display, a surface-conduction electron-emitterdisplay, a quantum dot display, etc.

In one embodiment, the LED array is a micro-pixelated LED array and theLED elements are micro-pixelated LEDs (also referred to as micro-LEDs orμLEDs in the description) having a small pixel size generally less than75 μm. In some embodiments, the LED elements may each have a pixel sizeranging from approximately 8 μm to approximately 25 μm, and have a pixelpitch (both vertically and horizontally on the micro-LED array) rangingfrom approximately 10 μm to approximately 30 μm. In one embodiment, themicro-LED elements have a uniform pixel size of approximately 14 μm(e.g., all micro-LED elements are the same size within a smalltolerance) and are arranged in the micro-LED array with a uniform pixelpitch of approximately 25 μm. In some embodiments, the LED elements mayeach have a pixel size of 25 μm or less and a pixel pitch ofapproximately 30 μm or less.

In some embodiments, the micro-LEDs may be inorganic and based ongallium nitride light emitting diodes (GaN LEDs). The micro-LED arrays(comprising numerous μLEDs arranged in a grid or other array) mayprovide a high-density, emissive micro-display that is not based onexternal switching or filtering systems. In some embodiments, theGaN-based, micro-LED array may be grown on, bonded on, or otherwiseformed on a transparent sapphire substrate.

In one embodiment, the sapphire substrate is textured, etched, orotherwise patterned to increase the internal quantum efficiency andlight extraction efficiency (i.e., to extract more light from thesurface of the micro-LEDs) of the micro-LEDs. In other embodiments,silver nanoparticles may be deposited/dispersed on the patternedsapphire substrate to coat the substrate prior to bonding the micro-LEDsto further improve the light efficiency and output power of theGaN-based micro-LEDs and of the micro-LED array.

In one embodiment, the active display can be monochrome or can providefull color, and in some embodiments, can provide multi-color. In otherembodiments, other suitable designs or types of displays can beemployed. The active display can be driven by electronics. In oneembodiment, the electronics can provide display functions, or canreceive such functions from another device in communication therewith.

In one embodiment, the active display can be part of a backlight/displayassembly, module or arrangement, having a backlight assembly including abacklight illumination or light source, device, apparatus or member,such as an LED backlight for illuminating the active display with light.In some embodiments, the backlight: source can be a large area LED andcan include a first or an integrated lens for collecting and directinggenerated light to a second, illumination or condenser lens, forcollecting, concentrating and directing the light onto active display,along display optical axis B, with good spatial and angular uniformity.The backlight assembly and the active display are able to provide imageswith sufficient high brightness luminance to be simultaneously viewedwith a very high brightness real world view through optics, while beingat low power.

The backlight color can be selected to be any monochrome color, or canbe white to support a full color microdisplay. Other backlight designelements can be included, such as other light sources, waveguides,diffusers, micro-optics, polarizers, birefringent components, opticalcoatings and reflectors for optimizing performance of the backlight, andwhich are compatible with the overall size requirements of the activedisplay, and the luminance, power and contrast needs.

FIGS. 16 and 17 depict representative examples of an integrated displaysystem in a base that couples to a main body, showing a display, anoptics system, and a mirror. The integrated system functions with anoptics system housed in a main body of a viewing optic, which isdepicted above the integrated display system.

Representative examples of micro displays that can be used include butare not limited to: Microoled, including MDP01 (series) DPYM, MDP02, andMDP05; Emagin such as the SVGA, micro-displays with pixel pitches are9.9×9.9 micron and 7.8×7.8 micron, and Lightning Oled Microdisplay, suchas those produced by Kopin Corporation. Micro LED displays can also beused including but not limited to those produced by VueReal and Lumiode.

In one embodiment, the electronics working with the active display caninclude the ability to generate display symbols, format output for thedisplay, and include battery information, power conditioning circuitry,video interface, serial interface and control features. Other featurescan be included for additional or different functionality of the displayoverlay unit. The electronics can provide display functions, or canreceive such functions from another device in communication therewith.

In one embodiment, the active display can generate images including butnot limited to text, alpha-numerics, graphics, symbols, and/or videoimagery, icons, etc., including active target reticles, rangemeasurements and wind information, GPS and compass information, firearminclination information, target finding, recognition and identification(ID) information, and/or external sensor information (sensor videoand/or graphics), or images for situational awareness, for viewingthrough the eyepiece along with the images of the view seen throughoptics. The direct viewing optics can include or maintain an etchedreticle and bore sight, and retain high resolution.

In one embodiment, the utilization of an active display allows for aprogrammable electronic aiming point to be displayed at any location inthe field of view. This location could be determined by the user (as inthe case of a rifle that fires both supersonic and subsonic ammo andthus has two different trajectories and “zeros”), or could be calculatedbased upon information received from a ballistic calculator. This wouldprovide a “drop compensated” aiming point for long range shooting thatcould be updated on a shot to shot interval.

In one embodiment, the active display can be oriented to achieve maximumvertical compensation. In one embodiment, the active display ispositioned to be taller than it is wide.

In one embodiment, the active display is oriented as shown in FIG. 18,which allows for the maximized range of vertical adjustment 1810 of anactive reticle within a riflescope. Maximized vertical adjustment isbeneficial since it allows for the ballistic compensation of scenariosat longer range.

In one embodiment, the integrated display system further comprises aprocessor n electronic communication with the active display.

In another embodiment, the integrated display system may include memory,at least one sensor, and/or an electronic communication device inelectronic communication with the processor.

Method of Use for Range Finding

In one embodiment, the active display can display range measurementsobtained from a laser rangefinder. In one embodiment, a LRF can becoupled to a viewing optic. In one embodiment, the LRF is directlycoupled to the outer scope body of the riflescope. In anotherembodiment, a portion of a LRF is directly coupled to the outer portionof the scope body of the riflescope.

In one embodiment, the LRF is indirectly coupled to the outer scope bodyof the riflescope. In another embodiment, a portion of a LRF isindirectly coupled to the outer portion of the scope body of theriflescope.

In yet another embodiment, a LRF is not coupled to the riflescope butcommunicates with the riflescope via either hard-wiring or wirelessly.

In general operation, a LRF provides a pulse of laser light that isprojected into the scene via the projection optics. This laser lightilluminates the object, and a portion of the laser light is reflectedback toward the LRF. Part of the reflected laser light returning to thedevice is captured by the receiving optical system, and is directed to adetector. The device includes a timer starting when the laser lightpulse is transmitted and stopping when the returning laser light isdetected. A calculator portion of the device uses the elapsed time fromtransmission of the laser light pulse until detection of the returningreflected laser light to calculate the distance to the object.

In one embodiment, distance calculations are transmitted to the activedisplay, and the generated images (distance measurements orcalculations) are redirected from the display optical axis “B” onto theviewing optical axis A with a mirror and a beam combiner forsimultaneously superimposing or overlaying the images (distancemeasurements or calculations) onto the images of the scene viewed by theviewer through the viewing optics.

Windage Range Bar

In another embodiment, the active display can generate a windage range.In one embodiment, a user can supply a range of wind values, andsoftware can generate windage data, for example a windage range variancebar. In one embodiment, the windage data is transmitted to the activedisplay, and the generated images, e.g., windage range variance bar, isredirected from the display optical axis “B” onto the viewing opticalaxis “A” with a mirror and a beam combiner for simultaneouslysuperimposing or overlaying the images (windage range variance bar) ontothe images of the scene viewed by the viewer through the viewing optics.

In one embodiment, the windage data includes the minimum wind hold pointto the maximum wind hold point.

In one embodiment, the windage data is transmitted to the activedisplay, and the active display can generate a digital reticle into thefield of view at the appropriate wind hold.

Display Colors for Mental Cues

In one embodiment, the active display can generate a color display toconvey an extra level of information to the user in aquick-to-comprehend format. In one embodiment, the active display cangenerate a series of color coded symbols to indicate a readiness tofire.

In one embodiment, the active display can generate a series of colorcoded symbols to color code objects in the target scene. In oneembodiment, the active display can color code friendly forces from enemyforces. In another embodiment, the active display can color code targetsof interest.

In one embodiment, the active display can generate a series of colorcoded symbols to indicate status of windage adjustment. In oneembodiment, a red dot can indicate that windage adjustment has not beencompleted while a green symbol could indicate that windage adjustmenthas been completed.

In another embodiment, the active display can generate an aiming pointwith color. In one embodiment, the aiming point would be a red color ifproper adjustments, including but not limited to windage, range, andelevation, have not been performed. In another embodiment, the aimingpoint would be a yellow color if some but not all shooting adjustmentshave been completed. In still another embodiment, the aiming point wouldbe green if all the requisite shooting adjustments have been completed,and the aiming point is fully compensated.

In yet another embodiment, flashing and steady states of symbols may beutilized to convey similar status information regarding the adjustmentof the aiming point.

In still another embodiment, the active display can generate text thatis shown in colors to indicate status. In one embodiment, red text canindicate that in input parameter has not been entered or calculated, andgreen for text indicating a parameter which has been input orcalculated.

Markers for Impact Zone in Range Finding

In one embodiment, an active display can generate circles, squares, orother shapes to allow the user to quickly encompass or encircle theimpact zone of a projectile.

Hold-over Estimation and Compensation

In another embodiment, the active display can generate an aiming pointcompensated for a moving target based on user input for the directionand rate of movement. For example, the user may input a rate of movementof 5 miles per hour to the left. This would be added to the windagevalue if the wind and movement are in the same direction, and subtractedfrom the windage value if the wind and movement are in oppositedirection. Then, when the aiming point and/or windage value bar areplotted on the display, the aiming point will include the proper amountof hold-over to allow the user to place the aiming point dot on thedesired impact zone and take the shot, rather than to have to place theaiming point ahead of the moving target to compensate for movement.

Team Operation Via Camera and Remote Display Manipulation

In one embodiment, the active display in conjunction with a networkinterface allow for an additional level of enhanced operation and usage.In one embodiment, the reticle images of a plurality of shooters over anetwork can be viewed. Each shooter's reticle camera image is shown onone or more consoles, and network processes and interfaces enable agroup-level of coordination, training, and cooperation not beforeavailable in individual riflescopes.

Training and Coaching.

In a training or coaching scenario, the coach can see how each shooterhas aligned his or her reticle on his or her respective target. By beingable to actually see the reticle alignment, the coach or trainer canthen provide instructions on adjustments and repositioning, such as byverbal instructions (e.g. by radio or in person).

In another embodiment, the coach's console can be provided with apointing means, such as a mouse or joystick, for which control data istransferred from the console to the rifle's integrated display systemvia the network. This coach's mouse or joystick then controls anadditional dot or pointer in the display of the scope of each shooter,which allows the coach to visually show the shooter which target to use,which range marker bar to use, and where to position the reticlerelative to the target. In one embodiment, each shooter can be providedwith his or her own coach's dot so that the coach may provideindividualized instruction to each shooter.

Fire Coordination.

In another embodiment, the active display can be used in thecoordination and implementation of a multi-shooter fire team. In oneembodiment, the commander of the team operates a coach's console anduses the coach's dots to assist in assigning targets to each shooter,communicating changes in reticle placement, etc.

Snapshots for Remote Review and Approval.

In another embodiment, the active display and network processes canallow the shooter, provided with a control means, to take a “snapshot”of his or her reticle view. This snapshot of the user's reticle view caninclude an image of a target of question. When the image is received bythe commander or coach, the commander or coach review the image andapprove or disapprove taking the shot. For example, in a coachingscenario, the user may take a snapshot of an animal he or she believesis a legal animal (age, species, gender, etc.) to take. If the coachagrees, the coach can so indicate by positioning or moving the coach'sdot in the shooter's reticle.

Biometric Classification of Target.

In another embodiment, the snapshot of the reticle image is received bya biometric recognition and/or classification process, such as a facialrecognition system. The biometric recognition and/or classificationprocess may be onboard the gun, such as being integrated into thedisplay control logic, or may be remote to the gun interconnected viathe network. The results of the recognition and/or classificationprocess may be provided in the reticle by transmitting the results viathe network to the control logic, and updating the displayappropriately.

Side-by-Side Image Display.

In another embodiment, an image is downloaded to the integrated displaysystem via the network, and is displayed coincidentally in the reticlewith the viewed images of target. A downloaded image can be used to makea side-by-side comparison by the user of the currently viewed targetwith a previously-taken image or photo of a target similar to that whichthe shooter is instructed or desiring to take. For example, during doeseason, a new shooter may be provided an image of a deer doe forreference in the reticle, which can be compared in real time to theactual animal being viewed through the scope. In a military or lawenforcement application, an image of a sought enemy or fugitive can bedisplayed in the reticle for real-time comparison by a sniper to face ofa person being viewed through the scope.

Representative Examples of Active Displays

a. 530-570 nm

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to an integrated displaysystem that uses a 530-570 nm micro display.

FIG. 19 depicts an integrated display system with a 530 nm-570 nmdigital display 1910.

FIG. 20 is a schematic of exemplary images 2020 that can be displayedwith a 530 nm-570 nm digital display 1910. As shown in FIG. 20, a glassetched reticle 2010 can be used with the apparatuses and systemsdisclosed herein. These images are examples only, and should not beconstrued to limit the amount or type of information that can bedisplayed with an active display.

In another embodiment, the integration of the 530 nm-570 nm digitaldisplay 1910 allows for relatively higher efficacy than any other colordisplay, due to the sensitivity of the human eye. This allows for asmaller amount of power consumption, relative to powering a red or bluedisplay to the same photometric brightness.

In yet another embodiment, the integration of the 530 nm-570 nm digitaldisplay 1910 gives the end user greater ability to discern digitaloverlays from the background created by the ambient light in a daysight.

b. AMOLED

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to an integrated displaysystem that includes an AMOLED micro display.

FIG. 21 depicts an integrated display system with a AMOLED digitaldisplay 2110.

FIG. 22 is a schematic of exemplary images 2210 that can be displayedwith an AMOLED digital display. As shown in FIG. 22, a glass etchedreticle 2010 can be used with the apparatuses and systems disclosedherein. These images are examples only, and should not be construed tolimit the amount or type of information that can be displayed with anactive display.

In one embodiment, the AMOLED 2110 generated image isintegrated/imaged/focused in the first focal plane. In one embodiment,the use of an AMOLED display 2110 allows for increased contrast andgreater complexity within data displayed into a riflescope.

In one embodiment, the integration of the AMOLED display 2110 allows forthe selection of individual pixels to be illuminated, giving the abilityfor complex data configurations to be displayed with ease in theriflescope.

In another embodiment, the integration of the AMOLED display 2110 allowsfor a small, lightweight package size inside the riflescope, due to thedecreased need for back lighting in the system.

In another embodiment, the integrated display system does not require abacklight display assembly.

In yet another embodiment, the integration of the AMOLED display 2110allows for decreased power consumption, as the ability to optimize powerusage to individual pixels is now available.

In one embodiment, the integration of the AMOLED display 2110 gives acontrast ratio, which allows for a clean “heads up” style display withinthe scope. The contrast ratio allows each floating feature to beindividually targeted and represented without a low glow around thepixels.

B. Collector Lens System

In one embodiment, integrated display system has an optical system basedupon the use of optical lenses as a part of one or more lens cells,which include the lens itself and a lens cell body to which the lens ismounted. In one embodiment, the lens cell includes a precision formedbody that is generally cylindrical or disc shaped. This body has acentral aperture for mounting the lens in alignment with an optical axisof a larger optical system. The cell body can also be said to have itsown alignment axis, which will ultimately be aligned with the opticalaxis for the larger system when the lens cell is mounted therein. Inaddition, the lens cell serves as a “holder” for the lens, serves as amechanism by which the lens can be mounted to and in the larger opticalsystem, and (finally) serves as a means by which the lens can bemanipulated by and for the purposes of that system.

In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises a collectorlens system, also referred to as a lens system. In one embodiment, thecollector lens system comprises an inner lens cell and an outer lenscell.

FIG. 23 is a representative example of a collector lens system 2310,which has an inner lens cell 2315 and an outer lens cell 2320. In oneembodiment, an outer lens cell 2320 contains at least one lens and aninner lens cell 2315 contains at least one lens. In one embodiment, theinner lens cell 2315 rotates on the inside surface of the outer lenscell 2320. As shown in FIG. 23, an active display 1210 is coupled to aflat machined surface at the back of the inner lens cell 2315. In oneembodiment, the active display 1210 can be directly coupled to the innerlens cell 2315. In yet another embodiment, the active display 1210 canbe indirectly coupled to the inner lens cell 2315.

One advantage of the collector optics system disclosed herein is thatthe inner lens cell being combined with the micro display mount providesa solid rotational mechanical axis to position the vertical axis of themicro display.

FIG. 24 is a representative depiction of a base 220 that couples to amain body of a viewing optic, wherein the base has a collector opticssystem 2310 as part of an integrated display system. In FIG. 24, themain body is depicted by the beam combiner 320 and the viewing opticreticle 2420.

The outer lens cell 2320 is fixed in place in relation to the viewingoptic system in the main body while the inner lens cell 2315 is allowedto rotationally float inside of the outer lens cell 2320. By placingpressure against a surface 2410 of the inner lens cell 2315 that islocated below the axis of rotation of the lens cell, the vertical axisof an active display 1210 can be aligned with the vertical axis of thereticle 1610 of the viewing optic system.

FIG. 25 is a representative depiction of one embodiment for aligning thetilt of the vertical axis of the active display with the vertical axisof the reticle. As shown in FIG. 25, opposing set screws 2505 can betightened against a surface of the inner lens cell 2315 that is locatedbelow the axis of rotation of the lens cell. The set screws 2505 can beused to align the vertical axis of the micro display 1210 with thevertical axis of a reticle in the optical system in a main body of aviewing optic. The rotation of the inner lens cell 2315 can be retainedby tightening set screws 2505 securely against the lower surface of theinner lens cell 2315, thereby, rotationally locking the vertical axis ofthe micro display 1210 in place.

FIG. 26 is a representative depiction of a rear cut-away view of thecollector lens system 2300 with a micro display 1210 or active displaytilt adjustment mechanism. When a micro display is injected into theoptical system of a viewing optic through the use of beam combiners orwave guides, an additional method of compensation is needed in order toeliminate tilt error between the reticle's vertical axis and theinjected image of the micro display's vertical axis. Set screws 2505 canbe tightened against a surface of the inner lens cell 2315 that islocated below the axis of rotation of the lens cell, thereby aligningthe vertical axis of the micro display 1210 with the vertical axis of areticle in the optical system in a main body of a viewing optic.

FIG. 27 is a representative depiction of a method and apparatus foreliminating parallax between a micro display and the reticle in anoptical system in the main body of a viewing optic. An outer lens cell2320 contains at least one lens on the right hand side of FIG. 27 and aninner lens cell 2315 contains at least one lens on the left hand side ofFIG. 27. The inner lens cell 2315 slides along the optical axis on theinside surface of the outer lens cell 2320. A micro display 1210 iscoupled to the inner lens cell 2315. A spring 2710 is installed betweenthe outer lens cell 2320 and the inner lens cell 2315 to cause the cellsto separate when not under a compression force.

FIG. 28 is a representative depiction of a base, which has the collectoroptics system 2300, coupled to a main body of a viewing optic. In FIG.28, the main body is depicted by the beam combiner 320 and the viewingoptical reticle 2810.

The outer lens cell 2320 is fixed in place in relation to the viewingoptic and the inner lens cell 2315 is allowed to float inside of theouter lens cell 2320. By forcing the inner lens cell 2315 forward by useof a screw or a wedge 2810 that places force on the back of the innerlens cell/active display mount, the axial position of the image ischanged so that the focal plane of the micro display image lies on thesame plane as the viewing optic reticle in the main body of the viewingoptic. Thus, parallax between the micro display and the reticle iseliminated.

The position of the inner lens cell is kept in place through the actionof the spring pressing outwards against the screw or wedge. Parallaxbetween the active display and the reticle can be eliminated withoutchanging the amount of light that is collected from the active displayand without degrading the image quality of the system.

By implementing the use of the spring between the inner and outer lenscell and the force on the back of the inner lens cell/micro display, themaximum amount of light can be collected from the micro display andprovides a rapid, simple, and accurate method of adjustment.

In one embodiment, the lens system can comprise two or more lenses. Inyet another embodiment, the lens system can comprise 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, 10 or greater than 10 lenses. Lens can be obtained from a variety ofcommercial manufacturers including but not limited to LaCroix Optics(www.lacroixoptics.com) and Diverse Optics (www.diverseoptics.com).

In one embodiment, the lens system is made of a five (5) lens system. Inone embodiment, the five lens system is comprised of 5 singlets. Inanother embodiment, the five lens system is comprised of two doubletsand a singlet. In yet another embodiment, the five lens system iscomprised of 3 singlets and 1 doublet. In one embodiment, at least oneplastic aspheric is used as a first element.

In one embodiment, the lens system is a five lens system with thefollowing order: an aspheric singlet closest to the active display,followed by a singlet lens, followed by a doublet lens, followed by thefinal singlet lens.

In one embodiment, the lens system is a five lens system having thefollowing configuration: lens 1 closes to the active display is 11 mm indiameter and 9.3 mm thick; lens 2 is 9 mm in diameter and 1.9 mm thick,the doublet has one lens (lens 3) that is 13.5 mm in diameter and 2.1 mmthick, and another lens (lens 4) that is 13.5 mm in diameter and 4.1 mmthick, and lens 5 that is 13.5 mm in diameter and 3.3 mm thick.

In one embodiment, the air space between one lens to the next lensranges from about 1 mm to about 20 mm. In one embodiment, the air spacebetween one lens to a subsequent lens ranges from about 5 mm to about 20mm. In one embodiment, the air space between one lens to a subsequentlens ranges from about 10 mm to about 20 mm.

In one embodiment, the distance between the active display and the firstlens is minimized in order to collect the maximum amount of light fromthe display. In one embodiment, the distance between the active displayand the first lens is less than 2 mm. In another embodiment, thedistance between the active display and the first lens is selected fromthe group consisting of: less than 1.8 mm, less than 1.5 mm, less than1.3 mm, less than 1.1 mm, less than 0.9 mm, less than 0.7 mm, less than0.5 mm, and less than 0.3 mm.

In one embodiment, a five lens system is housed in an inner cell and anouter cell. In one embodiment, the inner cell is constructed byinstalling an asphere into the inner lens cell from the opposite end ofwhere the display seat is; followed by a spacer; followed by lens 2,which can be a 9 mm singlet; followed by a lock ring, which holds bothlenses in place.

In one embodiment, the outer lens cell is constructed by inserting lens5, which can be the 13.5 mm singlet into the outer lens cell from thedisplay end of the cell; followed by a spacer; followed by the doublet,which can be lens 3 and 4, followed by a lock ring.

In one embodiment, the spacing between lens 2 in the inner cell and lens3 in the outer cell is changed when the inner lens cell moves axiallyalong the inner diameter of the outer lens cell. This causes the focalplane of the image of the display to shift and is used to null outparallax between the projected display image and the passive reticle inthe main body of the viewing optic.

In one embodiment, the focusing of the display image onto the firstfocal plane of the optic system in the main body is accomplished bychanging the air spacing between lens 2 and lens 3, of a 5-lens system,which is accomplished by varying the position of the inner lens cellwith respect to the outer lens cell.

In one embodiment, lens assemblies may also be assembled together withina lens barrel, which is an integral mechanical structure holding aseries of lenses. It is used to position the lenses axially and radiallywith respect to each other, and to provide a means of interfacing thelens assembly with the system of which it is a part. Lens elements areradially positioned by the inside diameter or ID of the barrel wall. Theoutside diameter or OD of the lens elements are ground to fit ID of thebarrel wall. The axial position of the lens elements is accomplished bycutting lens seats during assembly. The lens elements can then beconstrained on the seats by epoxy, retaining rings, etc.

C. Reflective Material

In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises a reflectivematerial 1230. In one embodiment, the reflective material 1230 is amirror. In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises oneor more mirrors. In one embodiment, the integrated display systemcomprises two, three, four or more mirrors.

In one embodiment, the mirror is positioned at an angle from 30° to 60°,or from 30° to 55°, 30° to 50°, or from 30° to 45°, or from 30° to 40°,or from 30° to 35° relative to the emitted light of the display.

In one embodiment, the mirror is positioned at an angle from 30° to 60°,or from 35° to 60°, 40° to 60°, or from 45° to 60°, or from 50° to 60°,or from 55° to 60° relative to the emitted light of the display.

In one embodiment, the mirror is positioned at an angle of at least 40°.In one embodiment, the mirror is positioned at an angle of 45° relativeto the emitted light of the display.

In one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 29, the tilt of a mirror 2910along the vertical axis is able to be adjusted by use of a screw orsimilar mechanism. By turning a screw in against the base or rear of themirror 2910, the angle at which the image of the micro display isreflected into the beam combiner can be changed. This correspondinglychanges the tilt of the focal plane at the viewing optic's reticle 2930of the optical system in the main body of a viewing optic. Using thisadjustment, parallax error can be eliminated between the micro displayand the reticle along the vertical axis.

In one embodiment, the mirror is fastened to the base with one or morescrews. In one embodiment, the mirror is fastened to the base using achemical compound such as an epoxy, a resin, or a glue or combinationsthereof.

In one embodiment, the position of the mirror can be adjusted inrelation to the beam combiner to eliminate any errors, including but notlimited to parallax error.

In one embodiment, the position of the mirror can be adjusted inrelation to the active display to eliminate any errors, including butnot limited to parallax error.

2. Power System

In one embodiment, the base that couples to the main body of the viewingoptic has a power system. In another embodiment, the base of a viewingoptic has a cavity. A battery cavity can be integrated into the basethat couples to the main body of a viewing optic.

FIG. 30 is a representative schematic of a base 220 with a batterycompartment 3005, wherein the base 220 is coupled to the main body 210of a riflescope 3000. As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, the battery cavity3005 extends from each side of the base to encase a battery, includingbut not limited to a CR123 battery. The CR123 battery has increasedpower capacity and discharge as compared to smaller batteries or coinstyle batteries.

In one embodiment, the battery cavity 3005 is integral to the base 220so that only the battery cap is needed to protect the battery from theenvironment. No additional sealing is required.

In one embodiment, the battery cavity 3005 in the base 220 is locatedcloser to the objective assembly 3010 of the main body 210 of a viewingoptic as compared to the ocular assembly.

FIG. 32 is a representative depiction of the battery compartment 3005integrated into the base 220. In one embodiment, the cavity 3005 isdesigned to have the positive side of the battery inserted first with amechanical stop at the bottom of the battery cavity to prevent improperinstallation and operation of the battery.

In one embodiment, the integrated battery cavity 3005 can use the samegasket as the base 220 uses to the main body 210 of the riflescope. Thisprovides a more reliable seal and eliminates a mechanical device as aseparate battery cavity is not required. Secondly, there is nomechanical device securing the battery cavity since it is integratedinto the base. This reduces the need for any mechanical interface forsecuring the battery compartment. Because there is no need formechanical locking of the battery cavity, the integrated batterycompartment reduces the points of failure for a traditional batterycompartment.

The integrated battery compartment eliminates any obstacles that are inthe way of the user. The integrated battery compartment is located underthe viewing optic out of the way of any of the adjustments and knobsfound on traditional viewing optics. The integrated battery cavity is asignificant advancement as it allows the necessary space to accommodatea larger battery.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can be set-up in a manner tominimize battery drain and to maximize battery life. For example, theviewing optic with a laser rangefinder is activated when an operatorpresses a button or switch. A range finder designator is displayed onthe screen. An external range finder's output laser will coincide withthe designator through an initial calibration step when zeroing theviewing optic. When the external rangefinder is activated by theoperator, information is sent to the viewing optic wirelessly or via thecommunication port signaling the device that information has beenreceived and needs to be displayed.

If the viewing optic is turned on and no data is received from anexternal device, the viewing optic will power down after a user settime. After displaying received information from an external device, thepower down timer is started and will power down the device if no furtherbutton presses are registered.

If more information is received from an external device, the screen willbe cleared of the prior information and the updated information will bedisplayed and the power down timer will be started. This cycle cancontinue as many times as the operator chooses.

During the time when information is displayed on the screen, a cantindicator is displayed on the screen. This is refreshed from anaccelerometer communicating with the microcontroller on a time interval.When the microcontroller is in sleep mode, the integral buttons on theviewing optic will control the brightness of LEDS illuminating a glassetched reticle. When the viewing optic is operating, control of theseLEDS becomes suspended and the brightness of the screen will be alteredduring the corresponding buttons presses.

3. Picatinny Mount

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having amain body and a base with a battery compartment and a picatinny mountthat can couple to the battery compartment. In one embodiment, aremovable picatinny mount is attached to a protruded battery compartmentthat is incorporated into a base coupled to a main body of a riflescope.

FIGS. 33-35 are representative schematics of a riflescope with a mainbody 210 and a base 220 coupled to the main body 210, with the basehaving a battery compartment 3005 that can attach to a picatinny mount3305. In one embodiment, the picatinny mount 3305 is aligned with thebattery compartment 3005 and secured with fasteners.

By attaching the mount 3305 to the battery compartment 3005 of the base220, it utilizes the material needed to make the cavity 3005 for thebattery. This eliminates the need for any additional material from thebase, thereby making the viewing optic lighter and less invasive.

In one embodiment, the mount is located towards the objective of theturrets and parallax knob so as to not intrude on the user's ability toadjust the riflescope. Further, the top ring is removable allowing foreasy attachment of an accessory device, such as a laser rangefinder. Byutilizing the picatinny mount disclosed herein, no additional structuralsupport from the top portion of the ring is needed since the integratedbase secures the riflescope.

In one embodiment, the mount incorporates a cantilevered picatinny railthat extends forward towards the objective of the riflescope. Thisallows a weapons mounted laser range finder to sit directly over thebell of the riflescope. This style of mount allows for decreased shiftof impact and increased accuracy of the ranging device. It decreases thepotential for shift of impact since there are fewer variables that mayaffect the ranging device from acquiring the desired target.

4. Data Ports

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic with a mainbody and a base with an active micro display for generating an image andcombining the generated image into the image of the scene in the FirstFocal Plane of the main body of the viewing optic, wherein he base hasaxially orientated data ports for interfacing with ancillary devicesincluding but not limited to remote control switches and laserrange-finders.

FIG. 36 is a representative schematic of a riflescope 3600 with a mainbody 210 and a base 220 with axially oriented data ports 3605. In oneembodiment, the viewing optic can have one axially oriented data port.In another embodiment, the viewing optic can have two or more axiallyoriented data ports.

By utilizing an axially oriented data port 3605, the top down profile ofthe overall viewing optic is minimized, thereby increasing therobustness of the mounted system and its connections.

5. External Video Sources

In one embodiment, the active display in the base can be used as theoptical train or optical system of a clip on device, including but notlimited to a thermal imaging system and a night vision system.

Thermal imaging systems allow for various waves of the electromagneticspectrum to be imaged and relayed to the user, which typically cannot becaptured by the human eye. Traditional thermal weapon sights arecomposed of two systems paired together: an infrared optical system,which views the scene and a visible wavelength optical system consistingof a micro display and lenses to recreate the image in front of theriflescope. There are also instances of catalytic photon enhancement,creating what us known as “night vision” systems. However, clip-ondevices are typically attached to the rifle rail in front of the mainbody of the riflescope. This setup blocks all of the ambient lighttypically imaged by the scope, and allows for use of the digital imageonly. In order to switch back to the traditional image, the user mustremove the system from the rail. This can cause an impact shift due tothe alignment setup that you go through each time the sight is changed.These clip-on units also tend to be large, due to the need for aneyepiece/imaging system behind the digital display in the units. Intraditional systems, any live video feed would be a completely digitalimage, including the visible spectrum output.

FIG. 37 is a representative schematic of a riflescope 3700 with a mainbody 210 and a base 220 with an active display 1210 and collector optics1220 that can be used as the optical system of a thermal imaging unit3705. The active display 1210 generates an image that is focused on afirst focal plane of the main body of the scope, using a beam combinerto integrate the image into the traditional day optic. The integrationof the digital display allows for the user to overlay the digital imageonto the ambient day optic. With the digital display disclosed herein,the clip-on unit does not have to be removed from the front of theviewing optic to view the ambient day optic. Rather, the digital displaycan be turned on and off as needed.

The integration of the digital display allows for zero image shift whenswitching between day visible and digital optic. Since the system isfully integrated, there is no need to zero each time the digital opticis turned on. The system is synchronous, due to the alignment of thecombiner optical system.

In one embodiment, the integration of the digital display makes up theoptical train that would typically be the rear half of a clip-on unit.Because there is already a micro display in the base of the viewingoptic, the thermal sight would only need the infrared optics; the imagecreated by the thermal sensor can be transmitted to the active display,which is already incorporated into the base of the viewing optic. Byintegrating a thermal or NV sight in this manner, the thermal/NV devicewill be much shorter and lighter than current weapon sights on themarket. This allows for the design of smaller lighter systems, sincehalf of the optical train is now integrated directly into the base thatcouples to the main body of a viewing optic. There is no need for a rearoptical system or display to be integrated into the clip-on unit thatcontains the sensing device.

Additionally, if the thermal weapon sight were to be mounted off to theside of the riflescope so that the thermal optics did not occlude theriflescope objective, then it would be possible to overlay a thermalimage overtop of the visible image that the user would be viewing. Thiswould have the benefit of being able to highlight humans, animals, oranything with a heat signature that stands out in an otherwise neutraldaylight scene.

In one embodiment, the integration of the digital display disclosedherein creates the advantage of having live video feed into the focalplan of a viewing optic, without interruption of the day visible sight.

In one embodiment, the integration of the digital display allows forseamless integration of imaging overlays, such as live thermal imagingview, and hyperspectral overlay systems. The visible image is nowanalog, rather than another digital display.

In one embodiment, the integration of the digital display disclosedherein creates the advantage of continued image feed, even if power wereto suddenly drain on the digital system. A true analog image would stillbe available, which would not be the case in traditional digital outputsystems.

In one embodiment, the integration of the digital display allows formultiple types of imaging systems to be mounted separate from the frontof the viewing optic. A thermal imaging system can be aligned to thebottom or side of the viewing optic and still feed that image directlyonto a focal plane within the main body of the viewing optic.

6. EMI Permeable Window

In one embodiment, the main body, the base or both the main body and thebase of a viewing optic can have a window that is sealed with a materialtransparent to the electromagnetic waves used for the wirelesscommunication. Transparent materials include but are not limited toplastics, resins or epoxies.

In one embodiment, the window allows EM waves to propagate from thecommunicating device with reduced interaction from the metallic body ofthe viewing optic. This increases the rate at which data can betransmitted. It also allows the wireless communication device to operateat a lower power level due to reduced signal losses.

III. Additional Sensors/Devices

In another embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic with amain body and a base with an integrated display system and one or moresensors. In one embodiment, the sensors include but are not limited to aGlobal Positioning System, accelerometers, a magnetometer, MEMS ratesensors, tilt sensors, laser rangefinder.

A. Pointing Angle, Target Location, and Communication

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can have inertial MEMS Rate Sensorsto determine the pointing angle of the weapon in inertial space. Exampleproducts are the LCG-50 by Systron Donner and the SiRRS01 by SiliconSensing. In another embodiment, accelerometers can be incorporated intothe embedded electronics to determine absolute tilt angle of the viewingoptic and track weapon accelerations due to general movement or a firingevent.

To support targeting, in various embodiments, the viewing optic can havea GPS and/or digital compass. In one embodiment, the GPS and/or digitalcompass can be integrated into the viewing optic, for example, as boardlevel modules. In another embodiment, the GPS and/or digital compass canbe associated with a separate device that communicates with the viewingoptic.

Several manufacturers offer custom of the shelf modules for GPS anddigital compass functionality that are small form factor and have lowpower consumption characteristics. These devices are designed to beintegrated into embedded components. For example, Ocean ServerTechnology makes a OS4000-T compass with 0.5 deg. accuracy and has apower consumption under 30 ma and is less than ¾″ square. An example ofa GPS device is the DeLorme GPS2058-10 Module that is 16 mm×16 mm and isavailable in a surface mount package offering 2 meter accuracy.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can have a data interface thatprovides one or both of wired and wireless capabilities designed tointerface to systems such as the BAE Personal Network Node and theemerging SRW radio. These interfaces provide various communicationscapabilities, such as range, sensor, and other tactical data (e.g.anti-fratricide detector, environmental sensors, etc). This uniquefunctionality is used in various embodiments to obtain and communicateenvironmental, target, and situational awareness information to thecommunity of interest. Generally speaking, the various embodiments aredesigned to enable the war fighter to quickly acquire, reacquire,process, and otherwise integrate data from a variety of passive andactive sources into a ballistic firing solution thereby increasing theshooter's effectiveness.

In another embodiment, the sensors provide information to the activedisplay in order to generate real time position data of differenttargets onto the first focal plane of the main body of the viewingoptic. In another embodiment, the sensors are part of an external devicethat communicates with the integrated display system.

By using these sensors in the viewing optic, or on an external devicethat is rigidly connected to the viewing optic, or on a weapon that theviewing optic is mounted to, the exact position of the viewing optic canbe obtained, as well as the exact direction that the viewing optic ispointed, and external targets can be calculated in relation to theviewing optic position and aimed direction.

As the user moves the viewing optic around or as targets move inrelation to the viewing optic, the position of the targets would beupdated continuously and in real time by the sensors communicating withthe integrated display system, so that by viewing through the viewingoptic the user would be able to see where the targets are in relation towhere they are looking.

This approach has strong utility in military applications where you mayhave personnel in different locations that are trying to communicate aspecific target location to one another. For example, with Close AirSupport (CAS), a pilot may be flying an aircraft and a unit on theground may be relying on the aircraft to drop a bomb on a target. Oftentimes, it is difficult for the unit on the ground to relay to theaircraft the exact location of the target. The process of relaying thetarget information between the ground unit and the aircraft is oftenreferred to as “talking on to the target,” and involves communicatingwhat the unit or aircraft is seeing in their field of view, such as whatlandmarks might be visible near the target and so on.

This process often takes quite a bit of time and can cause confusionbecause things often look different from the air than they do on theground. It is critical that each unit be sure that they are all lookingat the same target, because if the aircraft mistakes the target they maydrop a bomb on friendly units, or non-combatants.

By allowing location and position sensors to communicate with the activereticle display of the integrated display system, these issues aresolved. The user of the viewing optic can designate a target in theirscope, the scope knows the GPS location of the scope, the exactdirection it is pointing and distance to the target and can calculatethe exact GPS coordinate of the target. This information can be fed intoa universal system, such as Link 16, that all friendly units areconnected to. Now the aircraft can simply look at a display in theiraircraft and the new target is displayed on their map as soon as anotherunit designates it.

This makes finding targets much quicker and the confirmation that bothunits are looking at the same target much easier. Accuracy is extremelyimportant in determining target locations, thus, the active displaygenerated images need to be displayed in the first focal plane of themain body of the viewing optic. If the generated image from the activedisplay were put into the second focal plane of the viewing optic, thenthe target locations would only be accurate when the viewing opticreticle was at its “zeroed” location. If the user of the viewing optichad dialed anything on their turrets, for example to engage a long rangetarget, then all of the target information in the display would beshifted the amount dialed in the turrets and not be accurate.

By using this with the active display images injected into the firstfocal plane, the displayed data is agnostic of any adjustments made tothe reticle position and is automatically compensated for. This meansthat target data in the field of view is always accurate.

B. Environmental Sensors

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can have one or more pressure,humidity, and/or temperature sensors designed to collect and useenvironmental data for ballistic correction purposes. The sensors areavailable in miniature configurations suitable for integration into theviewing optic. An example of a miniature, low power, water proof,barometric pressure sensor is the MS5540 from Intersema. This componentmeasures 6.2×6.4 mm.

In one embodiment, the sensors can be coupled to the main tube of theviewing optic or to the base of the viewing optic.

C. Uphill and Downhill

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can have a z-axis accelerometerthat can be used to measure tilt angle of the scope with respect tovertical. This tilt angle can be integrated into a ballistic solution atthe time of target selection. Once the target is selected, the systemmay be able to automatically integrate actual uphill or down tilt intothe ballistic solution and display the solution into the first focalplane of the viewing optic so that the digital reticle or correctedaiming point is displayed correctly. This can provide for a very fastand effective means of aiming in long range uphill or downhillengagements.

IV. Viewing Optic with Display System and Laser Range Finder

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having amain body and a base with an integrated display system, and a laserrangefinder. In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder is coupled to theviewing optic. In another embodiment, the laser rangefinder isindependent from the viewing optic and communicates with the viewingoptic, either wirelessly or through a cable.

In one embodiment, a laser rangefinder can be used to determine distanceto target. In various embodiments, the laser transmits in the near IRfor covertness. A typical wavelength used for laser rangefinder devicesoperating in the near infrared (NIR) is 905 nm.

In one embodiment, the specific laser power and spectral characteristicsare selected to meet range and eye safety requirements of the viewingoptic. The rangefinder is of sufficient power to produce accuratemeasurements out to, illustratively, 1500 meters, 2500 meters orwhatever effective range is associated with the firearm or weaponintended to be used with the viewing optic. For rangefinder operation,in some embodiments a single button control is dedicated for making orexecuting a rangefinder measurement.

In one embodiment, the range to target may be communicated to the activedisplay that generates an image of the range to target and superimposesthe range to target onto the first focal plane of a viewing optic whenviewing the target scene.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic has a computing device withballistics calculator capabilities. In one embodiment, the main body ofthe viewing optic has a computing device with ballistics calculatorcapabilities.

In one embodiment, a laser rangefinder can be used to measure a targetdistance, calculate projectile ballistics and communicate the correctedaim point to an active display in an integrated display system, whichthen superimposes the image of the corrected aim point onto the firstfocal plane of a viewing optic with a reticle attached to a moveableerector lens system.

Importantly, because the active display generated image is combined withthe image from the target in front of the first focal plane and thenfocused onto the first focal plane, the target image and display imagenever move in relation to one another. Therefore, any aiming referencecreated by the digital display will always be accurate, regardless ofhow the moveable erector system is adjusted.

When an external laser range finder feeds range information to theriflescope, an aiming reference or laser designator will need to becreated by the digital display in order for the user to know where inthe field of view the LRF is aiming in order to accurately hit thecorrect target with the laser. The digital display image and the targetimage of the objective lens system in the main body of the riflescope donot move in relation to one another. Therefore, the digital laserdesignator will accurately show the user the correct location of the LRFlaser point of aim, no matter how the turrets have been adjusted to movethe moveable erector lens system.

On the other hand, if the digital display image was integrated into theoptic system anywhere behind the first focal plane then when the turretsare adjusted, and the erector lens system is moved/tilted, then theimage of the digital display would move in relation to the target imageand the digital LRF designator would move in relation to the actuallaser point of aim. This could lead to an incorrect range measurement ifthe user dials any elevation or windage adjustment into the turrets andforgets to dial back to the original position the turrets were set towhen the user aligned the digital reticle with the actual laser point ofaim.

In addition, when a traditional riflescope is zeroed to the rifle, theuser will typically select a “zero” range, often times 100 yards, thatis used align the riflescope reticle with the point of impact of therifle projectile. This is usually accomplished by adjusting the turretsof the riflescope, and thus the angle of tilt of the erector lenssystem, in order to align the reticle with the point of impact of theprojectile. After the initial “zero” of the riflescope has been set, theturrets allow the user to further make adjustments to the riflescopereticle position in order to compensate for targets at different rangesor for changing wind drift variables that affect where the point ofimpact of the projectile may change from the initial “zero” position.

If the digital display were to be integrated into the riflescope systembehind the first focal plane then the ballistically calculatedcorrection factor to the point of aim would have the potential to beincorrect if the user had made any adjustments to the turrets from theinitial “zero.” For example, if a ballistic calculator determined thatthe correction required 10 milliradians of elevation adjustment to hitthe target, the digital display would place an aim point 10 milliradiansbelow the center of the crosshair. However, if the user had dialed 5milliradians into the elevation turret from the initial “zero” position,the digital aim point would actually be aiming 15 milliradians below theinitial “zero.”

By injecting the digital display into the first focal plane of the opticsystem of the main body of a riflescope, it allows the digital displayto be totally unaffected by any change in the turret adjustment orposition of the erector system. This means that in the example above,the digital aim point would actually appear only 5 milliradians belowthe center of the reticle, for a total of, the correct, 10 milliradianballistic drop (user had previously dialed 5 milliradians into theelevation turret from the initial “zero” position). In short, injectingthe digital display image into the first focal plane of the optic systemof the main body renders the digital display image completely agnosticto any change in the turret position and thus the erector lens systemmovement/tilt, which provides the needed accuracy.

In one embodiment, the laser range finder capability providesdynamically defined ballistic solutions based upon data acquired. Therange to target may be used by the on-board computer when processingtracer trajectory to determine the best point along the measuredtrajectory path to use for determining the ballistic correction for thenext shot.

In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder is integrated into the scopeand has a dedicated outgoing laser transmission port. In one embodiment,the optical path of this dedicated laser axis is positioned in thecorner of the housing so it is unobstructed by the main objective lens.The detection path for the incoming reflected laser signal is throughthe main objective of the scope where the light is directed to a photodetector by a near IR beam splitter. This arrangement takes advantage ofthe relatively large aperture of the main objective lens to increase thesignal to noise of the measurement.

FIGS. 38 through 44 provides photographs of a viewing optic 3800 havinga main body 3810 with an optical system and a base 3820 coupled to themain body 3810 having an integrated display system, with a laser rangefinder 3830 coupled to the top of the main body 3810. The viewing optic3800 can have two auxiliary ports 3805 for communication with anexternal source. The viewing optic 3800 can have a picatinny mount 3305that couples to the outside of a battery cap for a battery cavity 3005in the base 3820.

FIGS. 45 through 46 provides photographs of a viewing optic 4500 havinga main body 4510 with an optical system and a base 4520 coupled to themain body 4510 having an integrated display system, with a laser rangefinder 4530 coupled to the top of the main body 4510. The viewing optic4500 can have a single auxiliary port 4535 for communication with thelaser range finder 4530.

FIGS. 47 and 48 provide photographs of a viewing optic 4700 having amain body 4710 with an optical system and a base 4720 coupled to themain body 4710 having an integrated display system. In certainembodiments, the viewing optic 4700 can have a picatinny mown 4730. Incertain embodiments, the viewing optic can have an auxiliary port 4735.

V. Additional Embodiments

1. Digital Zeroing

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to method for using a digitalreticle for alignment and zeroing purposes. In one embodiment, theviewing optic has a physical reticle and a digital reticle, with thephysical reticle being connected to the erector system. The user “zeros”the physical reticle by using turrets to move the reticle and erectorsystem so that the center of the reticle coincides with the bullet pointof impact.

After the physical reticle is zeroed, the digital reticle must also bezeroed. Since the digital reticle is formed by an active or digitaldisplay that is fixed in position, the only way to zero or align thedigital reticle is by using a digital means. The digital reticleposition can be moved by the user so that the center of the digitalreticle coincides with the center of the physical reticle.

In another embodiment, digital zeroing can also be used with a laserdesignator. When used in conjunction with an external laser rangefinder, the viewing optic laser designator must be aligned with thedirection that the laser range finder is pointing. Most external laserrangefinders have a visible laser and an infrared laser. The infraredlaser is the laser that actually measures the range. The visible lasercan be turned on an off and coincides with the aim of the infraredlaser. The visible laser allows the user to see where the laser isaiming. Once the visible laser is turned on, the user can then digitallyadjust the laser designator to coincide with the point of aim of thevisible laser. Then the visible laser can be turned off and the user canuse the laser designator in the viewing optic display to ensure accurateaiming of the laser rangefinder.

2. Holographic Waveguide

In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having amain body with a first optical system and a base with active display anda holographic waveguide. In one embodiment, the integration of theholographic waveguide reduces the package size and weight of atraditional beam combining system. The integration of the holographicwaveguide can increase the overall transmitted brightness ratio, suchthat a greater percentage of each optic system light gets to the enduser.

FIG. 49 is a representative depiction of a viewing optic 4900 with anoptical system in a main body 4910 and a base 49 having an activedisplay 1210 and a holographic waveguide system 4925. The holographicwaveguide system 4925 spans the main body 4910 as well as the base 4920.A digital or active display 1210 generates an image to the collimationoptic 4930, which sends the image to the in-coming hologram waveguide4926. The image exits the waveguide via the output hologram 4927 and theimage is injected into the first focal plane 4930 of the optical system4940.

In one embodiment, the integration of the holographic waveguide reducesthe need in specialized coatings made for beam combiners. In addition,the integration of the holographic waveguide disrupts the need for amirror system, alleviating the need for complex mechanical alignmentsystems.

The integration of the holographic waveguide allows you to create a copyof the complex optical system needed to image a display, eliminating theneed for a complex system to be put into every system.

The integration of the holographic waveguide allows for the use of LCOS,LCD and OLED systems to display information within an optical system.The nature of the system allows for various types of illuminationsystems in conjunction with the different types of displays used withinthe system.

The use of a holographic waveguide allows for the implementation ofnon-static illuminated reticles. The reticles can be changed just asimages on a screen are changed. The holographic waveguide allows fordaylight bright reticle systems without the need for traditionalillumination methods.

The integration of the holographic waveguide creates the ability tocreate a non-static holographic sight. The out coupling hologram cansend light as defined by the master optical system, allowing for changesin the sight picture of a holographic sight.

The integration of a holographic waveguide can be used with anymonochromatic or polychromatic light source. The use of complexmultiplexed Bragg gratings allow for the integration of multi-chromaticillumination systems.

3. Tracking Bullet Trajectory

One of the difficulties associated with long range engagements is theability to determine the accuracy of an initial shot so that a timelycorrection can be made to improve the accuracy of the next shot. Atraditional technique used to determine the round's point of impact isto attempt to detect bullet trace and/or actual splash point of bullet.This can be difficult in many long range engagements. In the case of asniper team, the follow up shots also require feedback from the spotterto get the pertinent data back to the shooter. This can take severalseconds using only verbal communications.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic can have an imaging sensor adaptedto detect image frames associated with a bullet flight path andcommunicate said image frames to a computing device, which can thencalculate bullet trajectory therefrom.

In one embodiment, the viewing optic with a main body and a base with anintegrated display system can allow tracer rounds to be detected byon-board image processing capabilities so as to determine the bullet'strajectory just before it impacts the target area. In one embodiment,this data can be communicated back into a ballistics computer therebyquickly and efficiently creating a follow up firing solution for thesecond round, which can be communicated to the active display and thecorrected aiming point superimposed into the first focal plane of themain body of the viewing optic.

Automating the feedback loop with trajectory and splash point detectionby computer and combining this to the active display and superimposingan electronic aiming point correction in the first focal planeadvantageously decreases the total time required to make an accuratesecond shot. This time reduction can be at a critical point in theengagement process. After the first shot is made, the window ofopportunity to make a second shot can quickly narrow, especially ifdelays extend past the point in time when the sonic boom of the initialshot reaches the intended target.

Environmental conditions and windage drifts can have substantial impacton the ballistic trajectory of the round over large distances. Forinstance, a M193 bullet can drift about 4 feet in a modest 10 mphcrosswind at 500 yards. Windage effects become even more exaggerated atgreater distances since the speed of the bullet decreases as the rangeand total time of flight increases.

A variety of tracer round options are available. A standard tracer isused conventionally by the shooter to see the trajectory of the bulletsin-flight path. A tracer round can emit light in the visible or IRspectrum depending on the composition of the tracer material. The latteris effective when the shooter is using night vision equipment. Inaddition, some tracers can emit light dimly at first and then brightenas the round travels downrange. A fuse element can control when thetracer lights up after firing of the round in order to delay ignitingthe tracer material until the bullet is well downrange. The fuse delaymitigates the risk of the tracer revealing the shooter's firinglocation.

In one embodiment, a viewing optic with an integrated display system canuse tracer rounds to detect, determine and/or display a bullet'strajectory just before it impacts the target area. In one embodiment,covert tracers that have long delay fuses and emit in the near IR region(700 nm to 1000 nm) of the electromagnetic spectrum can be used. Lightemitted in the near IR region is invisible to the human eye, but can bedetected by an imaging sensor using conventional glass optics. A tracerround of this type can be particularly effective in maintaining theshooter's covertness for Sniper operations while providing a significantautomated bullet tracking capability for accurately determining nextshot correction requirements. Thus, various embodiments are adapted tocooperate with one or more types of tracer rounds to implement thefunctions described herein.

Since the imaging sensor in the daylight embodiment is also sensitive tovisible light, a standard daylight tracer can also be used for bullettracking. In both the visible and near IR cases, the tracer rounds cantake advantage of having long delay fuses to increase covertness as thesystem only needs to detect the bullet's flight in the final momentsbefore impact.

In one embodiment, a camera associated with a viewing optic can recordthe trajectory of the bullet and using the suite of sensors embeddedinto the viewing optic, it can calculate the exact geo-positionaltrajectory of the bullet, as well as the bullet's point of impact.

In another embodiment, the viewing optic may also use a stabilizedcamera to compensate for recoil from the firearm. The viewing opticwould accurately track the movement of the stabilized camera, andcompensate for that movement to accurately calculate the geo-positionaltrajectory of the bullet. This embodiment would allow the shooter totrack their own trajectory and compensate for any misses moreaccurately.

In both embodiments, the geo-positional trajectory of the bullet couldthen be shared to other users who also active displays in devices theyare using, such as another riflescope, spotting scope, or goggles usinga microdisplay or holographic technology to display the trajectory intotheir field of view.

In one embodiment, the tracking of the bullet's trajectory incorporatescapturing video frame images of the glowing tracer bullet in flight. Thespatial location of the bullet in selected image frames is extractedthrough image processing techniques and then correlated with data fromother video frames to establish the bullet's trajectory.

Image frames are selected for processing based on correlation with thefiring event. When the round is fired from the weapon, the time ofmuzzle exit is immediately determined by processing accelerometer dataobtained from an on-board weapon axis accelerometer included in variousembodiments. A correlation window from the time of muzzle exit is thenstarted where various embodiments begin frame by frame processing ofvideo images to identify therein a small cluster of pixels associatedwith the tracer round at a particular X-Y position in space. The frameimages may be taken with an exposure time that is optimized to capturethe bullet as it transmits a small number of individual pixels in theX-Y frame. Since the frame rate of the camera and time of muzzle exit isknown, the bullet's distance from the weapon in each frame can beestablished using the known flight characteristic of the bullet. Thisdata is contained in the onboard tables pertinent to each weapon and itsassociated rounds or, alternatively, received from a tactical networkcommunication with the weapon sight.

If an absolute range to target is known from a laser rangefindermeasurement, the position of the round at the target range can becalculated by determining the point in the trajectory that correspondsto the target range. The elegance of this technique is that themeasurement is done from in-flight data and does not rely on bulletimpact with a physical surface. The position calculated would correspondto an angular elevation and azimuth relative to the weapon's positionand can be used to determine the ballistic pointing correction neededfor increased accuracy. As part of this next shot ballistic correctioncalculation, various embodiments use inertial pointing angle data tocalculate the relative reference point between inertial pointing angleof the gun at muzzle exit and the pointing angle at the time of splash.This allows the calculation to take into account any angular movement ofthe gun that occurred during the bullet's time of flight to targetrange.

4. Additional Configurations

FIG. 50 depicts an alternative embodiment of a riflescope 5000 having ascope body 5005 and a compartment or notch 5010 on the top of the scopebody 5005. The compartment 5010 has an integrated display systemcomprising an active display 5015, and collector optics 5020. Theintegrated display system is oriented such the display 5015 and thecollector optics 5020 are parallel with the beam combiner 5025. In thisembodiment, no reflective surface, such as a mirror, is needed.

FIG. 51 depicts an alternative embodiment of a viewing optic 5000 havinga scope body 5005 and a compartment or notch 5010 on the top of thescope body 5005. The compartment 5010 has an integrated display systemcomprising an active display 5105, collector optics 5110, and a mirror5115. The integrated display system is oriented such the display 5115and the collector optics 5110 are perpendicular with the beam combiner5025. In FIG. 51, the active display 5105 is closer to the ocular systemas compared to the objective system of the viewing optic.

FIG. 52 depicts an alternative embodiment of a viewing optic 5000 havinga scope body 5005 and a compartment or notch 5010 on the top of thescope body 5005. The compartment 5010 has an integrated display systemcomprising an active display 5105, collector optics 5110, and a mirror5115. The integrated display system is oriented such the display 5105and the collector optics 5110 are perpendicular with the beam combiner5025. In FIG. 52, the active display 5105 is closer to the objectivesystem as compared to the ocular system of the viewing optic.

The images generated from the active display 5105 can be directed to themirror 5115 combined with the images of the scene viewed by the viewerthrough the viewing optics with a beam combiner 5025 in the scope body5005 for simultaneously superimposing or overlaying the generated imagesand the viewed images, wherein the combined image is injected into thefirst focal plane. Because the beam combiner 5025 is positioned beforethe first focal plane, and the combined image is focused on the firstfocal plane, the displayed image and the viewed image do not move inrelation to one another. This is a major advancement compared to devicesthat inject the image into the second focal plane.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the viewing optic has a scopebody and a separable base having an active display and collector optics,with the active display and the collector optics being parallel with thebeam combiner. In this embodiment, no reflective surface, such as amirror, is needed. The base couples to the bottom of the main body ofthe viewing optic.

The images generated from the micro display can be combined with theimages of the scene viewed by the viewer through the viewing optics witha beam combiner in the scope body for simultaneously superimposing oroverlaying the generated images and the viewed images, wherein thecombined image is injected into the first focal plane. Because the beamcombiner is positioned before the first focal plane, and the combinedimage is focused on the first focal plane, the displayed image and theviewed image do not move in relation to one another. This is a majoradvancement compared to devices that inject the image into the secondfocal plane.

The optic sight and methods disclosed herein can be a display or viewingapparatus, device, sight, or scope, which can be for or on, or part of aweapon, gun, rifle, laser target locater, range finder, or as an add-onaccessory thereto. Embodiments can be mounted on a weapon, or apparatus,or can be hand held or helmet mounted.

The apparatuses and methods disclosed herein can be further described inthe following paragraphs:

1. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, and (ii) a beam combiner between the objective lens systemand the first focal plane; and

a second optical system with an active display and a lens system thatcollects the light from the active display, and (ii) a mirror thatdirects the image from the active display to the beam combiner where theimage from the active display and the target image from the objectivelens system are combined into the first focal plane and viewedsimultaneously.

2. A viewing optic comprising: an optical system configured to define afirst focal plane; an active display for generating a digital image,wherein the digital image is superimposed on the first focal plane; anda controller coupled to the active display, the controller configured toselectively power one or more display elements to generate the digitalimage.

3. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objective systemcoupled to a first end of the main tube; (c) an ocular system coupled tothe second end of the main tube, the main tube, objective system andocular system being configured to define at least a first focal plane;and (d) a beam combiner positioned between the objective assembly andthe first focal plane.

4. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objective systemcoupled to a first end of the main tube that focuses a target image froman outward scene; (c) an ocular system coupled to the second end of themain tube, the main tube, objective system and ocular system beingconfigured to define at least a first focal plane; (d) a beam combinerpositioned between the objective assembly and the first focal plane; and(e) an active display for generating an image and directing the image tothe beam combiner, wherein the generated image and the target image arecombined into the first focal plane.

5. A viewing optic comprising (i) a main body with an optical system forgenerating images of an outward scene and a beam combiner and (ii) abase coupled to the body and having an active display for generatingimages and a mirror for directing the generated images to the beamcombiner for simultaneous overlaid viewing of the generated images andimages of the outward scene in a first focal plane of the main body.

6. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, and (ii) a beam combiner that is placed between theobjective lens system and the first focal plane; and

a base with a second optical system with an active display and a lenssystem that collects the light from the active display, and (ii) amirror that directs the image from the active display to the beamcombiner where the image from the active display and the target imagefrom the objective lens system are combined into the first focal planeand viewed simultaneously.

7. A viewing optic comprising a main body with an optical system forviewing an outward scene and a base coupled to the main body having anactive display and a collector lens system for generating an image,wherein the generated image is combined into an image of the outwardscene in a first focal plane of the optical system of the main body.

8. A viewing optic comprising:

(i) a main tube having (a) an objective system coupled to a first end ofthe main tube that focuses a target image from an outward scene; (b) anocular system coupled to the second end of the main tube, the main tube,objective system and ocular system being configured to define at least afirst focal plane; and (c) a beam combiner positioned between theobjective assembly and the first focal plane; and

(ii) a base having an active display for generating an image anddirecting the image to the beam combiner, wherein the generated imageand the target image are combined into the first focal plane.

9. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, and an ocular lens system, (ii) a beam combiner between theobjective lens system and the first focal plane, (iii) a focus cellbetween the beam combiner and the objective lens system; and (iv) aconnecting element coupling the focus cell to a parallax adjustmentassembly.

10. A viewing optic comprising: an optical system having a beam combinerbetween a first focal plane and an objective lens system, a focus cellpositioned between the beam combiner and the objective lens system, andan active display for generating a digital image, wherein the digitalimage is superimposed on the first focal plane; and a controller coupledto the active display, the controller configured to selectively powerone or more display elements to generate the digital image.

11. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objective systemcoupled to a first end of the main tube; (c) an ocular system coupled tothe second end of the main tube, (c) a beam combiner positioned betweenthe objective assembly and the first focal plane; and (d) a focus cellpositioned between the beam combiner and the objective assembly.

12. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objective systemcoupled to a first end of the main tube that focuses a target image froman outward scene; (c) an ocular system coupled to the second end of themain tube, the main tube, objective system and ocular system beingconfigured to define at least a first focal plane; (d) a beam combinerpositioned between the objective assembly and the first focal plane; (e)a focus cell positioned between the beam combiner and the objectiveassembly; and (f) a connecting element coupling the focus cell to aparallax adjustment assembly.

13. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, an ocular lens system for viewing the target image, and(ii) a beam combiner between the objective lens system and the firstfocal plane; and

a second optical system with (i) an active display and a lens systemthat collects the light from the active display, (ii) a reflectivematerial that directs the image from the active display to the beamcombiner, and (iii) an adjustment mechanism for performing one or moreof the following tasks, (a) moving the active display in relation to thereflective material, (b) moving the reflective material in relation tothe active display, (c) moving the reflective material in relation tothe beam combiner, (d) moving the beam combiner in relation to thereflective material, and (e) moving the erector lens system in relationto the beam combiner, wherein the image from the active display and thetarget image from the objective lens system are combined into the firstfocal plane and viewed simultaneously.

14. A viewing optic comprising: an optical system configured to define afirst focal plane; an active display for generating a digital image, anda reflective material for directing the digital image to the first focalplane; and one or more adjustment mechanisms for performing one or moreof the following: (a) moving the active display in relation to thereflective material, and (b) moving the reflective material in relationto the active display.

15. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objective systemcoupled to a first end of the main tube that focuses a target image froman outward scene; (c) an ocular system coupled to the second end of themain tube, the main tube, objective system and ocular system beingconfigured to define at least a first focal plane; and (d) a beamcombiner positioned between the objective assembly and the first focalplane, (e) an active display and a reflective material that directs theimage from the active display to the beam combiner, and (f) anadjustment mechanism for performing one or more of the following: (i)moving the active display in relation to the reflective material, (ii)moving the reflective material in relation to the active display, (iii)moving the reflective material in relation to the beam combiner, (iv)moving the beam combiner in relation to the reflective material, and (v)moving the erector lens system in relation to the beam combiner, whereinthe image from the active display and the target image from theobjective lens system are combined into the first focal plane and viewedsimultaneously.

16. A viewing optic comprising (i) a main body with an optical systemfor generating images of an outward scene and a beam combiner and (ii) abase coupled to the main body and having an active display forgenerating images and a mirror for directing the generated images to thebeam combiner for simultaneous overlaid viewing of the generated imagesand images of the outward scene in a first focal plane of the main body,and wherein the base has a compartment for one or more power sources.

17. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, and (ii) a beam combiner that is placed between theobjective lens system and the first focal plane; and

a base with (i) a second optical system with (a) an active display and alens system that collects the light from the active display, (b) amirror that directs the image from the active display to the beamcombiner where the image from the active display and the target imagefrom the objective lens system are combined into the first focal planeand viewed simultaneously; and (ii) a compartment for one or more powersources.

18. A viewing optic comprising a main body with an optical system forviewing an outward scene and a base coupled to the main body having anactive display and a collector lens system for generating an image,wherein the generated image is combined into an image of the outwardscene in a first focal plane of the optical system of the main body, andfurther wherein the base has a compartment for one or more powersources.

19. A viewing optic comprising:

(i) a main tube having (a) an objective system coupled to a first end ofthe main tube that focuses a target image from an outward scene; (b) anocular system coupled to the second end of the main tube, the main tube,objective system and ocular system being configured to define at least afirst focal plane; and (c) a beam combiner positioned between theobjective assembly and the first focal plane; and

(ii) a base having an active display for generating an image anddirecting the image to the beam combiner, wherein the generated imageand the target image are combined into the first focal plane, and thebase further having a compartment for one or more power sources.

20. A viewing optic comprising (i) a main body with an optical systemfor generating images of an outward scene; and (ii) a base coupled tothe main body and having an active display for generating images and acompartment for a power source.

21. A viewing optic comprising (i) a main body with an optical systemfor generating images of an outward scene; and (ii) a base coupled tothe main body and having a compartment for a power source.

22. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, and (ii) a beam combiner between the objective lens systemand the first focal plane; and

a second optical system with an active display and a lens system thatcollects the light from the active display, and (ii) a mirror thatdirects the image from the active display to the beam combiner where theimage from the active display and the target image from the objectivelens system are combined into the first focal plane and viewedsimultaneously, and further wherein the lens system is a five lenssystem.

23. A viewing optic comprising: an optical system configured to define afirst focal plane; an active display for generating a digital image anda lens system for collecting the light from the active display, whereinthe digital image is superimposed on the first focal plane; and acontroller coupled to the active display, the controller configured toselectively power one or more display elements to generate the digitalimage, and further wherein the lens system is composed of an inner cellhaving two lenses and an outer cell having three lenses, wherein theouter cell is fixed in relation to the inner cell.

24. A viewing optic comprising (i) a main body with an optical systemfor generating images of an outward scene and a beam combiner and (ii) abase coupled to the body and having an active display for generatingimages and a lens system for collecting light from the active displayand a mirror for directing the generated images to the beam combiner forsimultaneous overlaid viewing of the generated images and images of theoutward scene in a first focal plane of the main body, and furtherwherein the lens system is a five lens system and the first lens islocated no more than 2 mm from the active display.

25. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, and (ii) a beam combiner that is placed between theobjective lens system and the first focal plane; and

a base with a second optical system with an active display and a lenssystem that collects the light from the active display, and (ii) amirror that directs the image from the active display to the beamcombiner where the image from the active display and the target imagefrom the objective lens system are combined into the first focal planeand viewed simultaneously, wherein the lens system is a five lens systemcomprised of three singlet lenses and a doublet lens.

26. A viewing optic comprising a main body with an optical system forviewing an outward scene and a base coupled to the main body having anactive display and a collector lens system for generating an image,wherein the generated image is combined into an image of the outwardscene in a first focal plane of the optical system of the main body,wherein the collector lens system has an inner cell having at least onelens and an outer cell having at least one lens and a mechanism toadjust the spacing between the lens of the inner cell and the lens ofthe outer cell.

27. A viewing optic comprising:

(i) a main tube having (a) an objective system coupled to a first end ofthe main tube that focuses a target image from an outward scene; (b) anocular system coupled to the second end of the main tube, the main tube,objective system and ocular system being configured to define at least afirst focal plane; and (c) a beam combiner positioned between theobjective assembly and the first focal plane; and

(ii) a base having an active display for generating an image and a lenssystem for collecting light from the active display and a mirror fordirecting the image to the beam combiner, wherein the generated imageand the target image are combined into the first focal plane of the maintube, and wherein the lens system has an inner cell with two lenses andan outer cell with three lenses.

27A. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube having an objectivesystem coupled to a first end of the main tube and an ocular systemcoupled to the second end of the main tube and a beam combiner locatedbetween the objective assembly and a first focal plane of an opticssystem; (b) an integrated display system for generating a digital image;and (c) a computing device for processing ballistics relevant data andcausing said integrated display system to adapt an aiming reticle withinthe digital image.

28. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising a base.

29. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising an integrated display system.

30. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising a base with an integrated display system.

31. The viewing optic of any of the preceding or following paragraphswherein the base couples to the main body of the viewing optic.

32. The viewing optic of any of the preceding or following paragraphswherein the base couples to the bottom side of the main body of theviewing optic.

33. The viewing optic of any of the preceding or following paragraphswherein the integrated display system is contained in a housing.

34. The viewing optic of any of the preceding or following paragraphswherein the housing couples to the top of the main body of the viewingoptic.

35. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein theintegrated display system has an active display.

36. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein theintegrated display system has an active display and a reflectivematerial.

37. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein theintegrated display system has an active display, a reflective material,and a collection optics system.

38. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thereflective material is located beneath the beam combiner.

39. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thereflective material is located above the beam combiner.

40. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thereflective material is parallel to the beam combiner.

41. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein theactive display and the reflective material are parallel to the beamcombiner.

42. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thereflective material is located on the objective side of the viewingoptic.

43. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thereflective material is located on the ocular side of the viewing optic.

44. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein activedisplay is located on the objective side of the viewing optic.

45. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein activedisplay is located on the ocular side of the viewing optic.

46. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thesecond optical system is in a base coupled to the body of the viewingoptic.

47. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thebeam combiner is located between an objective assembly of the main bodyand a first focal plane positioned and spaced along the viewing opticalaxis.

48. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thebeam combiner is located approximately beneath an elevation knob of theviewing optic.

49. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thebeam combiner is located closer to an objective assembly as compared toan ocular assembly of the viewing optic.

50. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein theintegrated display system comprises an angled mirror.

51. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein themirror is angled from about 40° to about 50°.

52. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein themirror is angled at about 45°.

53. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein theintegrated display system comprises collector optics having an innerlens cell and an outer lens cell.

54. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein oneend of the base attaches near a magnification adjustment ring of themain body and the other end of the base attaches near the objectiveassembly of the main body.

55. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein thebase is from 40% to 65% percent the length of the main body.

56. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising a focus cell.

57. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising a focus cell adjusted toward the objective side as comparedto the location of a traditional focus cell.

58. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising a beam combiner.

59. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising a beam combiner positioned where a traditional focus cell islocated.

60. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising a parallax adjustment assembly.

61. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs furthercomprising a connecting rod in the main body of the viewing optic.

62. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein theconnecting element is a rod or a shaft

63. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein theconnecting element is from about 5 mm to 50 mm in length.

64. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein theconnecting element is about 30 mm in length.

65. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein theparallax adjustment assembly comprises a rotatable element.

66. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein theparallax adjustment assembly comprises a knob.

67. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein theconnecting element couples the focus cell to the parallax adjustmentassembly.

68. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein one endof the connecting element is coupled to the focusing cell and the otherend of the connecting element is coupled to a cam pin of the parallaxadjustment assembly.

69. The viewing optic of any of the preceding paragraphs wherein theparallax adjustment assembly has a cam groove and a cam pin.

70. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated hereincomprising a lens system for collecting light from an active display.

71. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe lens system is composed of one or more lens cells.

72. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe lens system is composed of an inner lens cell and an outer lenscell.

73. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe lens system is composed of a 5 lens system.

74. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe lens system is composed of an inner lens cell having two lenses andan outer lens cell having three lenses.

75. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe lens system is a five lens system with the first lens located within2 mm of the active display.

76. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe lens system is composed of a five lens system and the first lens isan aspheric lens.

77. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe lens system is composed of an inner lens cell having at least onelens and an outer lens cell having at least one lens, and furthercomprising a mechanism to adjust the space between the at least one lensof the inner cell and the at least one lens of the outer cell.

78. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein furtherwherein one or more springs are located between the outer lens cell andthe inner lens cell.

79. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe lens system is composed of a single lens cell.

80. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe adjustment mechanism is a screw.

81. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe adjustment mechanism is a wedge.

82. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereina screw can be tightened against a surface of the inner lens cell toalign the vertical axis of the active display.

83. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereina screw can be tightened against a surface of the inner lens cell toadjust the active display active display.

84. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe power source is one or more batteries.

85. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinthe power source is one or more CR123 batteries.

86. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein furthercomprising one or more of a global positioning system (GPS) receiver, adigital compass and a laser rangefinder for providing location data tosaid computing device, said computing device responsively using some orall of said received data to calculate a ballistic solution.

87. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein said computing device receives one or more of inertial data,location data, environmental sensor data and image data, said computingdevice responsively using some or all of said received data to calculatea ballistic solution.

88. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein whereinsaid viewing optic is adapted to communicate with a network as a networkelement (NE), said computing device propagating toward said network someor all of said received data.

89. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein in response to first user interaction, said computing deviceenters a ranging mode in which target related information associatedwith a presently viewed aiming reticle is retrieved and stored in amemory.

90. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein in response to a second user interaction, said computing deviceenters a reacquisition mode in which previously stored target relatedinformation is retrieved from memory and used to adapt reticle imageryto reacquire a target.

91. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,further comprising a rangefinder for determining a distance to targetand communicating the determined distance to said computing device, saidcomputing device responsively adapting said aiming reticle in responseto said determined distance.

92. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein said rangefinder comprises one of a laser rangefinder and aparallax rangefinder.

93. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein said laser rangefinder comprises a near infrared (NIR)rangefinder.

94. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,further comprising an imaging sensor adapted to detect image framesassociated with a bullet flight path and communicate said image framesto said computing device, said computing device operable to calculatebullet trajectory therefrom.

95. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein said imaging sensor is adapted to detect emissions within aspectral region associated with a tracer round.

96. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,further comprising windage and elevation knobs adapted to communicaterespective user input to said computing device, said computing deviceresponsively adapting said aiming reticle in response to said userinput.

97. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein in response to user interaction indicative of a specific, saidcomputing device enters an indirect fire targeting mode in which targetrelated information is retrieved from memory and used to adapt aimingreticle imagery to reacquire a target.

98. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein in response to user interaction indicative of a secondaryammunition mode, said computing device responsively adapting said aimingreticle in response to ballistic characteristics associated with thesecondary ammunition.

99. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein said environmental data comprises one or more of barometricpressure data, humidity data and temperature data, said computing deviceresponsively using some or all of said environmental data to calculatethe ballistic solution.

100. The viewing optic of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein,wherein in the case of an aiming reticle outside an optical scope fieldof view, said computing device utilizes inertial reference informationto generate for display a simulated aim point reference.

101. A method of viewing with a viewing optic comprising: viewing ascene with a first optical system positioned along a viewing opticalaxis in a main body of the viewing optic; and simultaneously viewingimages generated by an integrated display system located in a cavity ofa base, wherein the base couples to the main body of the viewing optic.

102. A method of viewing with a viewing optic comprising: viewing ascene with a first optical system positioned along a viewing opticalaxis in a main body of the viewing optic; and simultaneously viewingimages generated by an integrated display system located in a cavity ofa base, wherein the image of the scene and the generated image areprojected into a first focal plane of the optical system.

103. A method of viewing with a viewing optic comprising: viewing ascene with a first optical system positioned along a viewing opticalaxis in a main body of the viewing optic having an objective assemblyand an ocular assembly; and simultaneously viewing images generated byan integrated display system located in a cavity of a base, wherein theimage of the scene and the generated image are projected into a firstfocal plane of the optical system, the integrated display system havingan active display for generating the image, a lens system for collectinglight from the image, and a reflective surface for directing thegenerated image into a beam combiner located between an objectiveassembly and the first focal plane of the main body.

104. A method of viewing with a viewing optic comprising: viewing ascene with a first optical system positioned along a viewing opticalaxis in a main body of the viewing optic; and simultaneously viewingimages generated by an integrated display system located in a cavity ofa base, wherein the image of the scene and the generated image areprojected into a first focal plane of the optical system, andeliminating parallax error by adjusting a parallax knob that isconnected to a focusing cell by a connecting rod.

105. A method of viewing with a viewing optic comprising: viewing ascene with a first optical system positioned along a viewing opticalaxis in a main body of the viewing optic; and simultaneously viewingimages generated by an integrated display system, wherein the image ofthe scene and the generated image are projected into a first focal planeof the optical system, and eliminating parallax error by adjusting aparallax knob that is connected to a focusing cell by a connecting rod.

106. A method of viewing with a viewing optic comprising: generating animage with an active display located in a base that couples to a mainbody of a viewing optic, collecting light from the active display with alens system; reflecting the generated image from the base to a beamcombiner in the main body, and projecting the generated image into afirst focal plane of the main body.

107. A method of viewing with a viewing optic comprising: viewing ascene with a first optical system positioned along a viewing opticalaxis in a main body of the viewing optic having an objective assemblyand an ocular assembly; generating an image with an active displaylocated in a base that couples to the main body of a viewing optic,collecting light from the active display with a lens system; reflectingthe generated image from the base to a beam combiner located between theobjective assembly and a first focal plane in the main body, andprojecting the generated image into the a first focal plane of the mainbody so that the generated image and the imaged scene can be viewedsimultaneously.

108. A method of providing information to a user of a viewing opticcomprising:

(a) providing a viewing optic having a main body, the main body havingan objective system coupled to a first end of a main tube and an ocularsystem coupled to the second end of the main tube, the main tube,objective system and ocular system being configured to define at least afirst focal plane;

(b) generating an image from an active display located in a base thatcouples to the main body of the viewing optic;

(c) reflecting the emitted light from the display to a beam combinerlocated between the objective assembly and the first focal plane in themain body where the image from the active display and a target imagefrom the objective lens system are combined into the first focal planeand viewed simultaneously.

109. The method of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein comprisingcontrolling the active display with electronics.

110. The method of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein comprisingproviding images for at least one of the following: active targetreticle, corrected aim point, range and wind information, elevation, GPSand compass information, target ID, external sensor information,ballistics information, with the active display.

111. The method of any of the paragraphs enumerated herein comprisingcontrolling the active display brightness to allow for viewing underambient conditions ranging from full sunlight to overcast starlight.

112. A viewing optic comprising: a body having an objective lens systemat one end that focuses a target image from an outward scene, an ocularlens system at the other end and a movable erector tube with an erectorlens system located between the objective and ocular systems, themovable erector lens system, the objective lens system and the ocularlens system forming a first optical system having a first focal planeand a second focal plane, with a first reticle at the first focal planethat moves in conjunction with the movable erector tube and a beamcombiner located between the first focal plane and the objectiveassembly; and

a second optical system with an active display for generating an imageand a lens system that collects light from the active display, and areflective material that directs the generated image from the activedisplay to the beam combiner where the image from the active display andthe target image from the objective lens system are combined into thefirst focal plane and viewed simultaneously.

113. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objectivesystem coupled to a first end of the main tube that focuses a targetimage from an outward scene; (c) an ocular system coupled to the secondend of the main tube, the main tube, objective system and ocular systembeing configured to define at least a first focal plane, with a firstreticle at the first focal plane that moves in relation to turretadjustments; (d) a beam combiner positioned between the objectiveassembly and the first focal plane; and (e) an active display forgenerating an image and directing the image to the beam combiner,wherein the generated image and the target image are combined into thefirst focal plane.

114. A viewing optic comprising: (i) a main body with an optical systemfor generating images along a viewing optical axis of an outward sceneand a beam combiner and (ii) a base coupled to the main body and havingan active display for generating images and a mirror for directing thegenerated images to the beam combiner for simultaneous overlaid viewingof the generated images and images of the outward scene in a first focalplane of the main body.

115. A viewing optic comprising:

a main body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lenssystem that focuses a target image from an outward scene to a firstfocal plane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, asecond focal plane, and (ii) a beam combiner that is placed between theobjective lens system and the first focal plane; and

a base that couples to the main body having a second optical system with(i) an active display that generates an image and a lens system thatcollects the light from the active display, and (ii) a mirror thatdirects the generated image from the active display to the beam combinerwhere the image from the active display and the target image from theobjective lens system are combined into the first focal plane and viewedsimultaneously.

116. An viewing optic comprising a main body with an optical system forviewing an outward scene and a base that couples to a bottom portion ofthe main body, the base having a cavity with an active display forgenerating an image, wherein the generated image is combined into theimage of the outward scene in the first focal plane of the opticalsystem.

117. A viewing optic comprising: an optical system having a beamcombiner between a first focal plane and an objective lens system, afocus cell positioned between the beam combiner and the objective lenssystem, and an active display for generating an image, wherein the imageis superimposed on the first focal plane; and a controller coupled tothe active display, the controller configured to selectively power oneor more display elements to generate the image.

118. A viewing optic comprising: a main body having an objective systemcoupled to a first end of a main tube that focuses a target image froman outward scene and an ocular system coupled to the second end of themain tube, the main tube, objective system and ocular system beingconfigured to define at least a first focal plane; a beam combinerpositioned between the objective assembly and the first focal plane; afocus cell positioned between the beam combiner and the objectiveassembly; a rod coupling the focus cell to a parallax adjustmentassembly; and an active display for generating an image and a reflectivesurface for directing the digital image to the beam combiner, whereinthe generated mage and target image can be focused on the first focalplane.

119. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, and an ocular lens system, (ii) a beam combiner between theobjective lens system and the first focal plane, (iii) a focus cellbetween the beam combiner and the objective lens system; and (iv) aconnecting element coupling the focus cell to a parallax adjustmentassembly.

120. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objectivesystem coupled to a first end of the main tube; (c) an ocular systemcoupled to the second end of the main tube, (c) a beam combinerpositioned between the objective assembly and the first focal plane; and(d) a focus cell positioned between the beam combiner and the objectiveassembly.

121. A viewing optic comprising:

a main body having (i) an optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, and (ii) a beam combiner; and

a base that couples to a bottom portion of the main body having a cavityhousing an active display for generating an image, a lens system thatcollects the light from the active display, and a reflective materialthat directs the image from the active display to the beam combinerwhere the image from the active display and the target image from theobjective lens system are combined into the first focal plane and viewedsimultaneously, the base further having a compartment for one or morepower sources.

122. A viewing optic comprising:

a main body having an objective system coupled to a first end of a maintube that focuses a target image from an outward scene and an ocularsystem coupled to the second end of the main tube, the main tube,objective system and ocular system being configured to define at least afirst focal plane and a beam combiner positioned between the objectiveassembly and the first focal plane; and

a base having an active display for generating an image and directingthe image to the beam combiner, wherein the generated image and thetarget image are combined into the first focal plane, the base furtherhaving a compartment for one or more power sources.

123. A viewing optic comprising (i) a main body with an optical systemfor generating images of an outward scene; and (ii) a base coupled tothe main body and having an active display for generating images anddirecting the images into a first focal plane of the optical system anda compartment for one or more power sources.

124. A viewing optic comprising (i) a main body with an optical systemfor generating images of an outward scene and a beam combiner and (ii) abase coupled to the main body and having an active display forgenerating images and a reflective material for directing the generatedimages to the beam combiner for simultaneous overlaid viewing of thegenerated images and images of the outward scene in a first focal planeof the main body, and wherein the base has a compartment for one or morepower sources.

125. A viewing optic comprising a main body with an optical system forviewing an outward scene and a base coupled to the main body having anactive display and a collector lens system for generating an image,wherein the generated image is combined into an image of the outwardscene in a first focal plane of the optical system of the main body, andfurther wherein the base has a compartment for one or more powersources.

126. A viewing optic comprising:

(i) a main tube having (a) an objective system coupled to a first end ofthe main tube that focuses a target image from an outward scene; (b) anocular system coupled to the second end of the main tube, the main tube,objective system and ocular system being configured to define at least afirst focal plane; and (c) a beam combiner positioned between theobjective assembly and the first focal plane; and

(ii) a base having an active display for generating an image anddirecting the image to the beam combiner, wherein the generated imageand the target image are combined into the first focal plane, and thebase further having a compartment for one or more power sources.

127. A viewing optic comprising: an optical system configured to definea first focal plane; an active display for generating an image, and areflective material for directing the image to the first focal plane;and one or more adjustment mechanisms for performing one or more of thefollowing: (a) moving the active display in relation to the reflectivematerial, and (b) moving the reflective material in relation to theactive display.

128. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objectivesystem coupled to a first end of the main tube that focuses a targetimage from an outward scene; (c) an ocular system coupled to the secondend of the main tube, the main tube, objective system and ocular systembeing configured to define at least a first focal plane; and (d) a beamcombiner positioned between the objective assembly and the first focalplane, (e) an active display for generating an image and a reflectivematerial that directs the image from the active display to the beamcombiner, wherein the image from the active display and the target imagefrom the objective lens system are combined into the first focal planeand viewed simultaneously and (f) an adjustment mechanism for performingone or more of the following: (i) moving the active display in relationto the reflective material, or (ii) moving the reflective material inrelation to the active display.

129. A viewing optic comprising:

a body having (i) a first optical system having an objective lens systemthat focuses a target image from an outward scene to a first focalplane, an erector lens system that inverts the target image, a secondfocal plane, an ocular lens system for viewing the target image, (ii) abeam combiner; (iii) a second optical system with an active display forgenerating an image, and a reflective material that directs thegenerated image from the active display to the beam combiner, and one ormore adjustment mechanisms for performing one or more of the following:(a) moving the active display in relation to the reflective material,(b) moving the reflective material in relation to the active display,(c) moving the reflective material in relation to the beam combiner, (d)moving the beam combiner in relation to the reflective material, and (e)moving the erector lens system in relation to the beam combiner, whereinthe image from the active display and the target image from theobjective lens system are combined into the first focal plane and viewedsimultaneously.

While multiple embodiments of a viewing optic with an integrated displaysystem have been described in detail, it should be apparent thatmodifications and variations thereto are possible, all of which fallwithin the true spirit and scope of the invention. With respect to theabove description then, it is to be realized that the optimumdimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to includevariations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner ofoperation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious toone skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to thoseillustrated in the drawings and described in the specification areintended to be encompassed by the present invention. Therefore, theforegoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of theinvention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes willreadily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limitthe invention to the exact construction and operation shown anddescribed, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalentsmay be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A viewing optic comprising: an objective lenssystem configured to focus a target image from an outward scene to afirst focal plane having a reticle, an erector lens system that invertsthe target image, a second focal plane, an ocular lens system forviewing the target image, (ii) a beam combiner; (iii) an active displayconfigured to generate an image, (iv) a collector lens system configuredto collect light from the active display and having an inner lens cell,an outer lens cell, and a spring located between the inner and outerlens cells, wherein the collector lens system is located between theactive display and a reflective material, the reflective materialconfigured to direct the generated image from the active display to thebeam combiner, wherein the image from the active display and the targetimage from the objective lens system are combined into the first focalplane and viewed simultaneously.
 2. The viewing optic of claim 1 furthercomprising a focusing cell located between the beam combiner and theobjective lens system.
 3. The viewing optic of claim 1, wherein theactive display is selected from the group consisting of: a transmissiveactive matrix LCD display (AMLCD), an organic light-emitting diode(OLED) display, a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) display, an e-ink display,a plasma display, a segment display, an electroluminescent display, asurface-conduction electron-emitter display, and a quantum dot display.4. The viewing optic of claim 1, wherein the image generated by theactive display is selected from the group consisting of: text,alpha-numeric, graphics, symbols, video imagery, icons, active targetreticles, range measurements, wind information, GPS and compassinformation, firearm inclination information, target finding,recognition and identification (ID) information, external sensorinformation, temperature, pressure, humidity, real time ballisticsolutions, and next round ballistic correction through in-flight tracerround detection and tracking.
 5. A viewing optic comprising: (a) a body;(b) an objective system coupled to a first end of the body configured tofocus a target image from an outward scene; (c) an ocular system coupledto the second end of the body, the body, objective system and ocularsystem being configured to define at least a first focal plane; (d) abeam combiner positioned between the objective assembly and the firstfocal plane, (e) an active display configured to generate an image, and(f) a collector lens system positioned between the active display andthe beam combiner and configured to collect light from the activedisplay, wherein the image from the active display and the target imageare combined into the first focal plane.
 6. The viewing optic of claim5, further comprising a reflective material between the collector lenssystem and the beam combiner.
 7. The viewing optic of claim 5, wherein afocusing cell is located between the beam combiner and the objectivelens system.
 8. The viewing optic of claim 5, wherein the collector lenssystem comprises an inner lens cell and an outer lens cell.
 9. Theviewing optic of claim 5, wherein the image generated by the activedisplay is selected from the group consisting of: active targetreticles, firearm inclination information, target finding, recognitionand identification (ID) information, real time ballistic solutions, andnext round ballistic correction through in-flight tracer round detectionand tracking.
 10. The viewing optic of claim 5, wherein the imagegenerated by the active display is a real time ballistic solution. 11.The viewing optic of claim 5, wherein the image generated by the activedisplay is a next round ballistic correction through in-flight tracerround detection and tracking.
 12. A viewing optic comprising: an opticalsystem configured to view a target image and having a first focal planewith a reticle at the first focal plane; an active display configured togenerate an image, and a collector lens system configured to collectlight from the active display, wherein the target image and thegenerated image are combined into the first focal plane and viewedsimultaneously.
 13. The viewing optic of claim 12, further comprising areflective material configured to direct the image from the activedisplay to the first focal plane.
 14. The viewing optic of claim 12,wherein the collector lens system comprises an inner lens cell and anouter lens cell.
 15. The viewing optic of claim 12, wherein the activedisplay is selected from the group consisting of: a transmissive activematrix LCD display (AMLCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED)display, a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) display, a e-ink display, a plasmadisplay, a segment display, an electroluminescent display, asurface-conduction electron-emitter display, and a quantum dot display.16. The viewing optic of claim 12, wherein the image generated by theactive display is selected from the group consisting of: text,alpha-numeric, graphics, symbols, video imagery, icons, active targetreticles, range measurements, wind information, GPS and compassinformation, firearm inclination information, target finding,recognition and identification (ID) information, external sensorinformation, temperature, pressure, humidity, real time ballisticsolutions, and next round ballistic correction through in-flight tracerround detection and tracking.
 17. The viewing optic of claim 12, whereinthe image generated by the active display is selected from the groupconsisting of: active target reticles, firearm inclination information,target finding, recognition and identification (ID) information, realtime ballistic solutions, and next round ballistic correction throughin-flight tracer round detection and tracking.
 18. The viewing optic ofclaim 12, wherein the image generated by the active display is a realtime ballistic solution.
 19. The viewing optic of claim 12, wherein theimage generated by the active display is a next round ballisticcorrection through in-flight tracer round detection and tracking.